Dominant Nine-Wicket Win Over England Secures Final Spot
Defending champions India cruised into the final of the ICC Women’s U19 T20 World Cup after a convincing nine-wicket victory over England in the semifinals on Friday. A composed half-century by G Kamalini, along with a stellar performance from the spinners, helped India dominate their opponents.
India will now face South Africa in the final on Sunday, with the Proteas making history by qualifying for their first-ever ICC Women’s U19 T20 World Cup final. Earlier in the day, South Africa secured a five-wicket win over Australia in the first semifinal.
Spinners Dominate as England Struggle
India’s left-arm spin duo of Parunika Sisodia (3/21) and Vaishnavi Sharma (3/23) proved too much for England, restricting them to a modest 113 for eight in their 20 overs. The English batters struggled against spin, with five of them falling while attempting sweeps and paddle shots.
England had a promising start, reaching 37 for no loss in the fifth over, but their innings quickly unraveled as wickets tumbled. The partnership between Davina Perrin (45 off 40 balls) and Abigale Norgrove (30 off 25 balls) briefly steadied the innings, taking England to 73 for two in 10 overs. However, reckless shot selection led to their downfall, as they managed just 40 runs in the final 10 overs while losing six wickets.
Sisodia, who was named Player of the Match, credited her consistency and match-specific training for her success.
“I bowled on the same spot and let the ball do the work. Practicing with batters instead of single-wicket drills has helped me refine my skills,” she said.
India’s Clinical Chase Led by Kamalini
Chasing 114 for victory, India’s opening duo G Trisha (35 off 29 balls) and G Kamalini (56 not out off 50 balls) ensured a smooth ride for their team. Trisha played with intent, dominating the Powerplay as India raced to 44 without loss in six overs.
Despite Trisha’s dismissal—bowled by Phoebe Brett after a solid 60-run partnership—India remained unfazed. Kamalini, with her well-placed strokes, built a steady 47-run stand with Sanika Chalke (11 not out), guiding India to a comfortable victory in 15 overs.
“Kamalini’s approach was built on precision and placement rather than power, leaving England’s bowlers with no answers,” stated a match report.
Aiming for Back-to-Back Titles
With this dominant win, India moves one step closer to defending their Women’s U19 T20 World Cup title. Facing hosts South Africa in the final, the team will look to continue their impressive form and secure back-to-back championships.
The final promises to be an exciting contest, with India’s spin attack going up against South Africa’s strong batting lineup in a battle for ultimate glory.
