PNG Lewas Captain Brenda Tau has said that belief, trust, and preparation are central to the team’s mindset as they begin their campaign at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier in Nepal, where only four spots are available for the 2027 tournament in England and Wales.

In a recent interview with PNG HAUSBUNG on the sports vodcast Skelim Pilai, Tau explained how the squad maintains composure when competing away from home against international opposition.

She said the focus within the team remains firmly on positivity and collective confidence.

“It’s just having the belief in the girls, because we all get to talk about positive things, to trust in each other and believe that we are capable to go out and compete,” Tau said.

The Lewas arrived in Nepal on January 12th, 2026, following a short recovery period after their recent Toyota Australia Cricket Country Championship (TACCC) commitments. They will open their qualifier campaign against Ireland on Sunday, January 18th, as they begin what Tau described as a demanding journey on the global stage.

With the qualifier offering just four qualification spots, Tau acknowledged the challenge ahead, saying the level of competition will be significantly higher than what the team has previously faced.

“To be honest, it’s going to be tough, as on this stage the level of cricket will be different, as it will be at a very high level of cricket with the teams we will be going against. And it’s going to be a tough challenge for every one of us individually,” she said.

Despite the difficulty, the captain said confidence within the squad has been strengthened by earlier international tours, as well as the leadership shown by senior players and lessons learned from previous losses.

She said preparation has extended beyond the field, with emphasis placed on team culture and mental readiness.

“The qualifier is going to be challenging for us individually and the team, but I trust and believe in the team because we worked on that on and off the field, also with the team’s culture. And one thing God has given us is the faith God has given us, and we are taking this to Nepal, and Papua New Guinea to the world stage,” Tau said.

The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier runs from January 14 to February 1, 2026, and will be hosted at the TU Cricket Ground and Upper Hulpani Cricket Ground in Nepal. The tournament brings together leading associate women’s teams competing for qualification to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup England & Wales 2026.

Following their arrival, the Lewas have entered final preparations, including recovery sessions and on-ground training, ahead of a demanding group-stage schedule.

PNG Lewas – Group Stage Fixtures

Sunday, 18 January: Ireland vs PNG

Tuesday, 20 January: PNG vs Bangladesh

Saturday, 24 January: PNG vs Namibia

Monday, 26 January: USA vs PNG

Matches will be played in morning and afternoon sessions in accordance with the official ICC fixture schedule.