In a commanding performance, the Indian U19 Women’s team defeated South Africa by nine wickets in the final of the U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025, held at Kuala Lumpur on February 2, 2025. The victory marked India’s second consecutive title in the tournament, showcasing their dominance and depth in women’s youth cricket. Opener Gongadi Trisha starred with the bat, scoring an unbeaten 44, while the Indian bowlers delivered a disciplined effort to restrict South Africa to just 82 runs in their allotted 20 overs.
Match Summary:
- South Africa: 82 all out in 20 overs
- India: 83/1 in 11.2 overs
- Result: India won by 9 wickets
- Player of the Match: Gongadi Trisha (44* off 36 balls)
Bowling Masterclass Restricts South Africa
After being asked to bowl first, India’s bowlers set the tone early with a clinical display of line, length, and aggression. The South African batters struggled to find any rhythm against India’s disciplined attack, losing wickets at regular intervals.
- Early Breakthroughs:
- India struck immediately, removing both openers in quick succession. The top order failed to capitalize on starts, leaving South Africa reeling at 25/3 inside the powerplay.
- Middle-Order Collapse:
- The middle order crumbled under pressure as India’s spinners and seamers combined effectively. Contributions from the entire bowling unit ensured there was no respite for the South African batters.
- Key Wicket-Takers:
- Soumya Tiwari: 3/12 in 4 overs
- Parshavi Chopra: 2/15 in 4 overs
- Aruna Pawar: 2/18 in 4 overs
- Total Restriction:
- South Africa were bundled out for just 82 runs, their lowest total in the tournament. The innings lacked momentum, with only one batter managing to reach double figures.
Clinical Chase Seals the Title
Chasing a modest target of 83, India’s openers ensured there were no hiccups in the pursuit. The Indian batters played with intent and precision, sealing the victory in just 11.2 overs with minimal fuss.
- Gongadi Trisha’s Knock:
- Gongadi Trisha anchored the chase with a composed and aggressive innings of 44* off 36 balls, including 6 boundaries. Her ability to rotate the strike and find gaps consistently kept the scoreboard ticking.
- She was ably supported by her opening partner, who contributed valuable runs before falling for 18.
- Unbroken Partnership:
- The opening stand laid the foundation for the chase, with India losing just one wicket during the innings. The partnership ensured that the required run rate never climbed above four, making the task straightforward.
- Victory Celebration:
- India crossed the line with 8.4 overs to spare, showcasing their superiority in both batting and bowling departments. The players erupted in joy as they lifted the trophy, marking a historic second consecutive title win.
Statistical Highlights:
- Lowest Total Defended in Finals:
- South Africa’s total of 82 is the lowest ever defended in the history of U19 Women’s T20 World Cup finals.
- India’s Bowling Excellence:
- India’s bowlers shared the wickets evenly, with no single bowler going wicketless. This collective effort highlights the depth and balance in the Indian squad.
- Efficient Run Chase:
- India’s chase of 83 in 11.2 overs is one of the quickest in U19 Women’s T20 World Cup finals, emphasizing their dominance.
- Second Consecutive Title:
- With this victory, India became the first team to win back-to-back titles in the U19 Women’s T20 World Cup, cementing their status as a powerhouse in youth cricket.
Key Performances:
- Gongadi Trisha (India):
- Scored an unbeaten 44 off 36 balls, guiding India to victory with ease. Her composure under pressure earned her the Player of the Match award.
- Soumya Tiwari (India):
- Delivered a match-winning spell of 3/12 in 4 overs, dismantling South Africa’s top order and setting the platform for the victory.
- Parshavi Chopra (India):
- Contributed with both bat and ball, taking 2/15 and playing a supporting role in the chase.
Historic Achievement for Indian Cricket:
This victory marks a significant milestone for Indian women’s cricket, as the U19 team continues to produce world-class talent capable of dominating on the global stage. The seamless transition from the senior team’s success to the youth level reflects the strong grassroots development and structured pathways in Indian cricket.
The Indian U19 Women’s team has now established itself as a force to be reckoned with, inspiring the next generation of cricketers and raising the bar for future tournaments. Their back-to-back titles are a testament to their skill, determination, and teamwork.