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31 January 2025

India's U19 Women Crowned T20 World Cup Champions

Gongadi Trisha's record-breaking century fuels victory as India gears up for finals against South Africa.

India's U19 women's cricket team has made history by winning the ICC Women's U19 T20 World Cup 2025, underscoring its dominance in international cricket.

On January 31, 2025, India took another significant step toward defending their title after defeating England by nine wickets in the semi-finals held at the Bayuemas Oval, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This victory secured their place against South Africa in the finals on Sunday.

The match was marked by some phenomenal performances, particularly from India's spinners. They set the tone against England, restricting their opponents to just 113 runs for eight wickets. Parunika Sisodia excelled with the ball, collecting three wickets for 21 runs, effectively crippling the English batting lineup.

Gongadi Trisha, who had recently made headlines with her record-breaking century against Scotland during the tournament, was instrumental once again. Alongside opening partner G Kamalini, they laid the foundations for India's chase, scoring 44 runs without losing any wickets by the end of the powerplay.

After Trisha was dismissed for 35 runs off 29 balls, Kamalini continued to pressure the English bowlers. She eventually reached her fifty and sealed the win with style, smashing the final runs with five overs to spare. Her stellar innings contributed to India's success, mirroring their growth and determination throughout the tournament.

Earlier, England had started confidently, led by Davina Perrin, who contributed 45 runs, along with Abigale Norgrove’s 30. Their opening partnership gave England hope, but it was India's bowling depth and tactical discipline which turned the tide. The innings shifted dramatically with Sisodia and Aayushi Shukla claiming key wickets, leading to England's collapse.

Gongadi Trisha's influence on the tournament has been extraordinary. During the Super Six match against Scotland, she scored the first century ever recorded in ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup history with her impressive knock of 110 not out off just 59 balls. This remarkable performance not only highlighted her batting prowess but also showcased her ability as an all-around player, having taken three wickets during the match, significantly aiding India’s victory.

Trisha's story is one of inspiration—coming from Bhadrachalam, Telangana, she has risen through the ranks to become a player of international recognition. Her cricketing foundation was laid at St John’s Cricket Academy, from where she has developed her technique and gameplay under the guidance of experienced coaches.

The monumental success of India’s U19 women’s team is not just restricted to the trophy they seek; it also marks the growth of women’s cricket within the country. Trisha, along with her teammates, is seen as the torchbearers who inspire future generations of female cricketers. Her achievements have already started breaking barriers for aspiring young girls, proving to families and communities alike, particularly those from rural backgrounds, the viability and potential of women’s sports.

Since Trisha broke records and inspired her team, the Indian cricket community has begun to recognize and celebrate the talent nurtured across various parts of the nation. This victory serves as both a watershed moment for women’s cricket and as the impetus for the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to invest even more in the women's game.

The consolidation of talented players like Trisha and Kamalini guarantees the future of Indian women's cricket is bright. Their current success lays the groundwork for building upon future victories on the international stage, potentially competing with and defeating longstanding cricketing nations.

With the finals against South Africa approaching, confidence is high among the players and management. Fans of Indian cricket eagerly await to witness if the young ladies can clinch the title and solidify their status as the pinnacle of U19 women’s cricket.

The triumph of India’s U19 women's team is poised to leave a lasting impact. Their skills, determination, and commitment exemplify the spirit of the game and herald a new era for women’s cricket, both regionally and globally. Together, they inspire thousands, reimagining the future of the sport.