The ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025 is set to showcase some of the most promising young talent in women’s cricket. Group A features Malaysia (hosts), India (reigning champions), Sri Lanka, and the West Indies. All matches will be played at the Bayeumas Oval in Pandamaran, making it a thrilling venue for this highly anticipated tournament.
Malaysia: Debutants Ready to Shine
Malaysia makes its debut in the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup. As hosts, they secured automatic qualification after narrowly missing out in 2023. Fresh from valuable experience in the U19 Women’s T20 Asia Cup, Malaysia is poised to make an impact.
- Captain: Nur Dania Syuhada, an all-rounder with senior team experience, will lead both the batting and bowling efforts.
- Key Players: Wicketkeeper-batter Nur Aliya Binti Mohd Hairun and spinners Marsya Qistina Binti Abdullah and Nur Isma Dania Binti Mohd Daniel are pivotal to Malaysia’s hopes.
India: Defending Champions with Experience
India enters the tournament as the defending champions, eager to retain their title. With a robust squad featuring three members from the 2023 winning team, they are a formidable contender.
- Veterans: Gongadi Trisha, Shabnam Shakil, and Sonam Yadav bring valuable experience from the previous edition.
- Star Performers: Trisha, who shone in the recent Asia Cup, and captain Niki Prasad, along with bowler Aayushi Shukla, are set to lead India’s charge.
Sri Lanka: Eyeing a Stronger Finish
After a respectable Super 6 finish in 2023, Sri Lanka aims to go further this time. With a recent semifinal appearance in the Asia Cup, they are in a strong position to challenge top teams.
- Standout Players: Chamodi Praboda, a 15-year-old bowling prodigy, and captain Manudi Nanayakkara, who has demonstrated explosive batting potential, are key to Sri Lanka’s strategy.
- Revenge Match: Their group stage clash with India on January 23 is one to watch, offering a chance for redemption.
West Indies: Building on Past Success
The West Indies team looks to improve on their Super 6 finish from the previous edition. Their squad, rich in experience, is led by all-rounder Samara Ramnath, who brings insights from her stint with the Trinbago Knight Riders.
- Experienced Core: Vice-captain Asabi Callender, bowler Jahzara Claxton, and all-rounder Naijanni Cumberbatch are seasoned players returning for a second U19 World Cup appearance.
- Captain’s Leadership: Ramnath’s all-round capabilities and leadership will be crucial for the West Indies’ campaign.
Group A of the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025 promises thrilling encounters, with each team bringing unique strengths to the table. Fans can look forward to competitive matches as these young teams battle it out for supremacy in Pandamaran. Stay tuned for more updates and match analyses as the tournament unfolds.