Daijiworld Media Network
Kuala Lumpur, Feb 2: India, led by Karnataka's Nikki Prasad, clinched their second consecutive U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup title with a resounding nine-wicket victory over South Africa in the final at Bayuemas Oval on Sunday. With both teams entering the final undefeated in the tournament, India’s clinical performance on both sides of the game ensured they became the first team to win the title without losing a match.
Electing to bat first, South Africa struggled to find momentum against India's disciplined bowling attack. Trisha Gongadi was the star of the Indian bowling lineup, taking 3 key wickets for just 15 runs, while the spin trio of Vaishnavi Sharma (2-6), Aayushi Shukla (2-13), and Parunika Sisodia (2-6) each made significant contributions.
The South African batters were under constant pressure and were bowled out for a paltry 82 in 20 overs. Mieke van Voorst top-scored for South Africa with 23 runs, but the rest of the lineup faltered as India’s spinners tightened the noose. The final breakthrough came when Parunika took a catch off the last ball of the innings, leaving South Africa with a mountain to climb.
In reply, India lost G Kamalini early, but the chase was carried out with ease thanks to the brilliant partnership between Trisha Gongadi (44* off 33 balls) and Sanika Chalke (26* off 22 balls). The duo built a steady partnership, rotating the strike well and striking boundaries when needed. India completed the chase in just 11.2 overs, reaching 84/1 to secure the victory with plenty of overs to spare.
The Indian bowlers had dominated the earlier part of the game, with Shabnam Shakil also contributing with a vital wicket, and Trisha’s match-winning performance underlined her all-round brilliance. Vaishnavi Sharma’s 17 wickets in the tournament earned her the title of the top wicket-taker, and India's depth in both batting and bowling proved too much for South Africa.
This victory marks India’s second successive U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup title, following their triumph in 2023 in South Africa. Under the leadership of Nikki Prasad, Karnataka’s own, India displayed complete dominance throughout the tournament, a testament to their superior skill and preparation. Prasad had also led India to the U-19 Women’s Asia Cup title, defeating Bangladesh by 41 runs in the final, further solidifying her leadership credentials.
Brief Scores:
South Africa 82 all out (Mieke van Voorst 23, Fay Cowling 15; Trisha Gongadi 3-15, Parunika Sisodia 2-6) lost to India 84/1 in 11.2 overs (Trisha Gongadi 44* not out, Sanika Chalke 26* not out; Kayla Reyneke 1-14) by nine wickets.
(With inputs from IANS)