Victoria Pearls face must-win test against PNG | ICC Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy 2025

ICC Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy 2025 – 10th Match
Terdthai Cricket Ground, Bangkok │ 23 November 2025

Papua New Guinea Women, buoyed by early success, meet Victoria Pearls, who arrive under mounting pressure after a dramatic collapse against Namibia.

PNG Riding High: Depth and Discipline

Papua New Guinea Women entered the competition as pre-tournament favourites from Oceania, and their opening victory over Thailand only reinforced that billing.

PNG’s fielding unit, sharp and athletic, has also stood out – a crucial edge in matches where every run saved can swing momentum.

With two points from one game, PNG aim to consolidate their position near the top of the table and underline their credentials as title contenders.

Uganda’s Fragile Campaign: Promise and Pain

For Victoria Pearls, this fixture has become a test of survival. Following a 15-run defeat to Scotland, their second outing against Namibia ended in heartbreak, highlighting the team’s recurring batting fragility.

Namibia vs Uganda: Collapse in Bangkok

Uganda captain Janet Mbabazi won the toss and chose to field, restricting Namibia to 83/8 thanks to disciplined spells from Immaculate Nakisuuyi, Sarah Akiteng, and Malisa Ariokot.

At 49/2 in the chase, Uganda looked poised for victory, with Nakisuuyi (17) and Esther Iloku (15) steadying the innings.

But debutant Leigh-Marie Visser produced a spell that will be remembered. Her figures of 3/10 dismantled Uganda’s middle order, supported by Mekelaye Mwatile’s prowess.

Leigh-Marie Visser of Namibia celebrates the wicket of Stephanie Nampiina of Uganda during the Match 7 of the ICC Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy 2025 between Uganda Women vs Namibia Women held at Terdthai Cricket Ground, Bangkok, Thailand on November 21, 2025.

Photo by: Pankaj Nangia / CREIMAS

Uganda slumped to 71/7, falling short by 12 runs. Extras – 16 in total, including nine wides – proved costly in a low-scoring thriller.

The defeat left Uganda winless after two matches, despite showing bowling discipline, but it once again faltered under batting pressure.

Tactical Battleground: Spin, Patience, and Pressure

The Terdthai Cricket Ground has been a great leveller, with defences often prevailing.

The gripping surface rewards spinners who can vary pace and flight, while batters must adapt to uneven bounce.

Fielding discipline is paramount. A single dropped catch or misfield can swing momentum in games where margins are razor-thin.

Stakes Beyond the Scorecard

This fixture carries added weight after Namibia’s upset win over Uganda. Uganda desperately need a response to keep their top four finish hopes alive.

Key Players to Watch

PNG – Pauke Siaka: A right-arm medium bowler who has picked 4 wickets in 2 Innings at an average of 5.25 in this tournament.
PNG – Brenda Hoi Tau: Left-hand Bat and wicketkeeper with 63 runs and therein a half-century in this showpiece.
Uganda – Janet Mbabazi: Captain and bowler, her leadership under pressure will be decisive.
Uganda – Immaculate Nakisuuyi: Reliable with both bat and ball, but needs support to anchor innings.