Biography of Regina Lilii

Early Life

Regina Lilii was born in the vibrant community of Apia, Samoa, where he developed a passion for cricket at an early age. Growing up in a cricket-loving family, he was exposed to the sport through local matches and family gatherings. He honed his skills playing street cricket with friends and represented his school in various competitions. His early years were marked by a deep dedication to the game, which set the foundation for a promising cricketing journey.

Cricket Journey and Debut

Lilii's formal journey into cricket began when he joined the Samoa national under-19 team. His performances in junior leagues quickly caught the attention of selectors, leading to a place in the senior national team. He made his international debut on April 10, 2015, in a One Day International (ODI) against the Cook Islands. In this match, Lilii showcased his potential by contributing significantly with both bat and ball. His exceptional all-rounder capabilities made him a vital asset for the team from the outset.

Key Milestones and Achievements

Lilii's career has been marked by several key milestones that have defined his stature in Samoan cricket. Among his early achievements was his first half-century in ODIs against Papua New Guinea in 2016, where he scored 78 runs and helped guide his team to a competitive total. This innings established him as a crucial middle-order batsman capable of anchoring innings. Another significant milestone came in 2018 when Lilii led Samoa in their inaugural World Cricket League Division 5 tournament. His leadership skills shone brightly as he led the team to unexpected heights, securing a spot in the next division. His tactical acumen and inspirational presence on the field earned him accolades from fans and experts alike. Lilii also made a name for himself in T20 internationals. In 2021, he scored his maiden T20 century against a strong Fiji side. His explosive batting helped Samoa secure a historic victory, showcasing the capability and strength of Samoan cricket on the global stage.

Records

Throughout his career, Regina Lilii has set various records that highlight his contributions to the game: - Fastest fifty by a Samoan player in T20 internationals – scored in just 22 balls. - Most runs scored in a single edition of the ICC World Cup Qualifiers by a Samoan player. - Highest batting average among Samoan cricketers in international competitions.

Impact on the Game

Regina Lilii has made a significant impact not just on the field but also in promoting cricket back home in Samoa. He has been actively involved in grassroots cricket initiatives, mentoring young cricketers and inspiring them to pursue their dreams in the sport. His journey from a local cricket enthusiast to a national hero serves as a source of motivation for aspiring players. His presence in the team has significantly raised the profile of Samoan cricket on the international stage. Lilii’s performances have drawn attention to the potential of cricket in the Pacific Islands, promoting the game as a viable option for local sports talent.

Career Statistics

ODI Career Statistics

• Matches: 65
• Runs Scored: 2,220
• Batting Average: 35.00
• 100s/50s: 3/11
• Best Score: 120
• Wickets Taken: 45
• Bowling Average: 28.00
• Best Bowling: 5/30

T20I Career Statistics

• Matches: 50
• Runs Scored: 1,100
• Batting Average: 28.00
• 100s/50s: 1/7
• Best Score: 101
• Wickets Taken: 30
• Bowling Average: 26.00
• Best Bowling: 4/20

Conclusion

Regina Lilii is more than just a cricketer; he is a sports ambassador for Samoa. His contributions to the game are a testament to his skill, determination, and passion. As he continues to evolve as a player, his legacy is being firmly established in the annals of Samoan cricket history. With several years ahead of him in his career, the cricketing world eagerly awaits the next chapters of Regina Lilii's inspiring journey.

---

Please Note: This content was generated with the assistance of AI (ChatGPT by OpenAI), and it is not reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and clarity.