Dominant India crush South Africa to defend U19 women's T20 World Cup title
It was a fitting end to a campaign in which they had displayed control and confidence throughout.
India secured their second consecutive ICC Women's U19 T20 World Cup title in emphatic fashion, thrashing South Africa by nine wickets in the final on 2 February.
It was a fitting end to a campaign in which they had displayed control and confidence throughout.
South Africa, after winning the toss and opting to bat, struggled from the outset against India's disciplined bowling attack. Parunika Sisodia set the tone early, dismissing opener Simone Lourens for a duck, before Shabnam removed the dangerous Jemma Botha, reducing South Africa to 20 for 2 by the fourth over.
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Aayushi Sharma compounded their troubles by claiming the wicket of Diara Ramlakan, leaving the hosts at 29 for 3 by the end of the powerplay. Captain Kayla Reyneke and Karabo Meso attempted to rebuild, but their partnership was short-lived as both fell in quick succession.
A 30-run stand between Mieke van Voorst and Fay Cowling—South Africa's highest of the innings—offered some resistance, but India soon regained control, wrapping up the innings for just 82 runs.
Gongadi Trisha was instrumental with the ball, taking three wickets, while Aayushi Shukla delivered the most economical spell, finishing with figures of 2 for 9, including two maidens. Sisodia, Vaishnavi Sharma, and Shabnam also chipped in with crucial breakthroughs.
India's chase began in dominant fashion, racing to 36 without loss in the first four overs. South Africa managed one moment of hope when captain Reyneke forced Kamalini G into an error, with Simone Lourens taking a fine catch.
However, that was the only success they found, as Trisha Gongadi led the charge with an unbeaten 44 off 33 balls, striking eight fours. She was well-supported by Sanika Chalke, who added 26 off 22 deliveries, as the duo comfortably guided India home.
With the resounding nine-wicket victory, India reaffirmed their dominance at the U19 level, lifting the Women's U19 T20 World Cup for the second time in succession.
