Defending champions India kicked off their ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025 with a strong win against West Indies, claiming victory by nine wickets at the Bayuemas Oval in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
After winning the toss, India chose to field first. Their bowlers quickly took charge, dismissing the West Indies for just 44 runs in 13.2 overs. VJ Joshitha was a standout performer, earning the Player of the Match title. She made an impressive start by taking two wickets in successive deliveries in the fourth over, getting the West Indies captain, Samara Ramnath, and Naijanni Cumberbatch out for ducks.
The West Indies struggled from the beginning, with key players Jahzara Claxton and Brianna Harricharan both falling without scoring. By the sixth over, the team was reeling at 17 for 4. Asabi Callendar and Kenika Cassar attempted to stabilize the innings, but Callendar was run out in the eighth over.
India’s bowlers continued to shine, with run outs contributing to the West Indies’ downfall. Abigail Bryce and Amiah Gilbert both made only one run each before getting out. Kenika Cassar, the top scorer for her team with 15 runs, was bowled by Parunika Sisodia. The last two West Indies batters were dismissed without scoring, ending the innings on a low note.
India began their chase confidently. Despite losing opener Gongadi Trisha early, caught off a bowling delivery, Sanika Chalke and wicketkeeper G Kamalini quickly formed a solid partnership. They put together 43 runs in just four overs, easily reaching the target of 45 runs.
Next up, India will face Malaysia in their second match on Tuesday, followed by a crucial game against Sri Lanka on Thursday.
Match Summary: West Indies: 44 in 13.2 overs (Kenika Cassar 15, Parunika Sisodia 3/7) lost to India: 47/1 in 4.2 overs (Sanika Chalke 18*; Jahzara Claxton 1/18) by nine wickets.
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