India will look to maintain their dominant run as they clash with England in the semifinal of the Women’s U-19 T20 World Cup on Friday. Having stormed through the tournament with an unbeaten record, the Niki Prasad-led squad is brimming with confidence ahead of this crucial knockout encounter.
India’s campaign began with a commanding 10-wicket victory over hosts Malaysia, followed by comprehensive wins against Sri Lanka (60 runs), Bangladesh (8 wickets), and Scotland (150 runs) in the Super Six stage. Their latest triumph against Scotland showcased their all-round dominance, sending a strong warning to their semifinal opponents.
India’s Batting Powerhouse
India’s batting unit has been in sensational form, led by Gongadi Trisha, who smashed an explosive 110 off 59 balls against Scotland, featuring 13 fours and 4 sixes. Partnering her at the top, G Kamalini also played a solid hand with a 42-ball 51, ensuring a commanding total for India.
With scores of 4, 27, 49, 40, and 110*, Trisha has amassed 230 runs in five matches at an average of 76.66, making her the tournament’s leading run-scorer. In contrast, England’s top batter, Davina Perrin, has 131 runs from four innings at 32.75, highlighting the gulf in batting form between the two teams.
Bowling Unit Firing on All Cylinders
India’s bowlers have been equally impressive, dismantling Scotland for just 58 runs in 14 overs in their last match. Vaishnavi Sharma (3/5), Aayushi Shukla (4/8), and Trisha (3/6) spearheaded the bowling attack with clinical precision.
With 12 wickets, Vaishnavi has been a standout performer, while Aayushi follows closely behind with 10 wickets, making them key players in India’s title charge.
England’s Challenge
England, on the other hand, will need to step up their game, having recorded two wins and two losses in the Super Six stage. Their inconsistency could be a concern against an Indian side that has been relentless in all departments. If England is to challenge India’s supremacy, their key players must find form quickly.
Team India:
Led by skipper Niki Prasad, the squad features rising stars like Sanika Chalke, G Trisha, Kamalini G, Bhavika Ahire, Ishwari Awasare, and Mithila Vinod. The team is further bolstered by Joshitha VJ, Sonam Yadav, Parunika Sisodiya, Kesari Drithi, Aayushi Shukla, Anandita Kishor, MD Shabnam, and Vaishnavi S.
Team England:
Under the leadership of Abi Norgrove, the English squad boasts talents such as Phoebe Brett, Olivia Brinsden, Tilly Corteen-Coleman, Trudy Johnson, and Katie Jones. Joining them are Charlotte Lambert, Eve O’Neill, Davina Perrin, Jemima Spence, Charlotte Stubbs, Amuruthaa Surenkumar, Prisha Thanawala, Erin Thomas, and Grace Thompson.
Match Time: 12:00 PM IST
With India’s incredible form and England’s unpredictable performances, this semifinal promises to be an exciting contest. Can India continue their dominance and book a place in the final, or will England pull off an upset?
