The U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025 kicked off in dramatic fashion as India and Sri Lanka registered resounding victories on the opening day in Kuala Lumpur. Defending champions India crushed West Indies by nine wickets, while Sri Lanka demolished Malaysia by 139 runs, with both teams showcasing outstanding bowling performances.
India’s Bowlers Decimate West Indies
India’s decision to bowl first against West Indies paid off immediately. Fast bowler VJ Joshitha set the tone with a fiery opening spell, trapping Samara Ramnath LBW and having Naijanni Cumberbatch caught at slip in successive deliveries. Her efforts left West Indies reeling early.
The Indian spinners then took charge, with left-arm duo Aayushi Shukla and Parunika Sisodia dismantling the middle order. Shukla and Sisodia claimed crucial wickets in consecutive overs, reducing West Indies to 17 for 4 within six overs. The situation worsened with three run-outs in quick succession, leaving the batting side in tatters. West Indies were bundled out for a mere 44 runs.
Parunika Sisodia emerged as the standout bowler, finishing with incredible figures of 3 for 7, while Shukla and Joshitha chipped in with two wickets each.
India’s chase was clinical and quick. India’s comprehensive victory underscored their dominance as they began their title defense on a high note.
Read: Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan Anchor Pakistan’s Recovery
Sri Lanka Thrashes Hosts Malaysia
Earlier in the day, Sri Lanka overwhelmed hosts Malaysia with a commanding all-round performance. Asked to bat first, Sri Lanka’s top order capitalized on the powerplay. Opener Sanjana Kavindi’s explosive 30 off 13 balls and a steady half-century from Dahami Sanethma (55 off 52) anchored their innings.
In response, Malaysia crumbled under relentless pressure from Sri Lanka’s bowlers. Left-arm spinner Chamodi Praboda ripped through the top order, taking two wickets in her first over to leave Malaysia at 2 for 3. Praboda finished with remarkable figures of 3 wickets for just 5 runs in four overs.
Support from Manudi Nanayakkara and Limansa Thilakarathna, who took two wickets each, ensured Malaysia was bowled out for a dismal 23 in 14.1 overs. Six Malaysian batters failed to score, and no player reached double figures, highlighting the dominance of Sri Lanka’s bowling attack.
A Day for Bowlers
The opening day of the U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup showcased the bowlers’ brilliance. Both India and Sri Lanka demonstrated exceptional skill and precision, stamping their authority early in the tournament. While India relied on their well-rounded attack, Sri Lanka’s spinners stole the show, leaving fans eager to see more thrilling performances as the tournament progresses.
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