Niki Prasad captains India U19 in the first Women’s Asia Cup, competing in Malaysia against Pakistan and Nepal from December 15 to 22.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially announced that Niki Prasad will spearhead a 15-member squad representing India in the inaugural Women’s Under-19 Asia Cup. This important tournament is set to unfold at the Bayuemas Cricket Oval in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from December 15 to December 22.
India’s Under-19 team finds itself placed in Group A of the tournament, where they will compete alongside arch-rivals Pakistan and Nepal. Group B features Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the host nation, Malaysia.
The tournament will kick off with an eagerly anticipated match on December 15, where India will face Pakistan, a fixture that typically garners significant attention due to the historical rivalry between the two teams. This match is scheduled to commence at 11:30 AM IST. Following that, India is scheduled to meet Nepal on December 17, also at 11:30 AM IST.
The selected players are an accomplished group, including captain Niki Prasad, who will be supported by vice-captain Sanika Chalke. The full roster comprises G Trisha, Kamalini G, who has been designated as a wicket-keeper along with Bhavika Ahire, Ishawari Awasare, Mithila Vinod, Joshitha VJ, Sonam Yadav, Parunika Sisodiya, Kesari Drithi, Aayushi Shukla, Anandita Kishor, MD Shabnam, and Nandhana S. Additionally, Prapti Raval will serve as a non-travelling reserve, ensuring the team has adequate coverage and support.
The tournament’s structure includes a group stage followed by the Super Four round. The subsequent matches are determined by the teams’ performances in the group stage, with the leading teams progressing to face one another in the Super Four. This structure not only heightens competition but also provides teams with the opportunity to showcase their skills against a diverse field.
Detailed information on the competitive schedule further illustrates the intensity of the tournament. Following the group stage matches, the 5th/6th Place match is set for December 18 at 11:30 AM IST. The Super Four stage will commence on December 19, featuring two crucial matches: the top team from Group A will collide with the top team from Group B at 7:00 AM IST, while the second-placed teams from each group will meet at 11:30 AM IST on the same day.
The next round of Super Four matches will take place on December 20, with the dynamics intensifying as teams vie for a spot in the final. The Super Four matches will again attract attention, with the schedule repeating the pattern of morning and afternoon fixtures.
The grand finale is set for December 22, where the top two teams from the Super Four will compete for the championship title at 11:30 AM IST. The expectations surrounding this inaugural tournament are high, as it provides a crucial platform for young talent to emerge and showcase their cricketing skills on an international stage.
Overall, the Women’s Under-19 Asia Cup promises an exciting blend of competitive cricket, sporting spirit, and a chance for undiscovered talent to shine, marking a significant step forward for women’s cricket in the region. The BCCI’s initiative not only aims to foster young athletes but also seeks to enhance the overall stature of women’s cricket in India. As fans eagerly await the tournament, the spotlight will be on upcoming players who hold the potential to make a substantial impact on the future of Indian cricket.
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