The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially unveiled the Indian U19 Women’s team for the inaugural U19 Women’s Asia Cup 2024, starting December 15.

Niki Prasad to lead the Indian team

Dynamic all-rounder Niki Prasad has been entrusted with the captaincy for the upcoming campaign. She recently showcased exceptional leadership by guiding India B to a triumphant win in the U19 tri-series held in Pune, competing against India A and South Africa. In the decisive final, Niki scored a quickfire 49 runs off just 31 balls, steering India B to an eight-wicket victory over South Africa at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium.

World Cup winners in the squad

Two key players in the squad, Gongadi Trisha and Shabnam Shakeel, were integral members of the team that clinched the U19 Women’s T20 World Cup in South Africa last year. Trisha impressed with the bat, scoring 116 runs across seven matches, with her highest score being 57.

Notably, the U19 Women’s Asia Cup 2024 is scheduled to take place in Malaysia from December 15, serving as a preparatory event for the U19 Women’s T20 World Cup. India will be in Group A, along with Pakistan and Nepal, with the top teams from each group advancing to the Super Fours and subsequently, the final on December 22.

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Significance of the tournament

The U19 event is not just about winning but about exposure, experience, and development. For many in the squad, this will be their first international outing, offering a platform to showcase their skills on a broader stage. The selection of such a youthful team indicates a strategic long-term investment in women’s cricket by the BCCI, aiming to cultivate players who could eventually transition to the senior side.

The emphasis on all-rounders and spinners in the squad hints at a strategy to counter the conditions expected in Malaysia, where spin could play a significant role. The inclusion of multiple pace bowlers also suggests versatility in approach, ready to adapt to different match situations.

India squad for U19 Women’s Asia Cup 2024

Niki Prasad (c), Sanika Chalke (vc), G Trisha, Kamalini G (wk), Bhavika Ahire (wk), Ishawari Awasare, Mithila Vinod, Joshitha VJ, Sonam Yadav, Parunika Sisodiya, Kesari Drithi, Aayushi Shukla, Anandita Kishor, MD Shabnam, Nandhana S

Standbys: Hurley Gala, Happy Kumari, G Kavya Sree, Gayatri Survase

Non-travelling Reserve: Prapti Raval

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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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