In a momentous achievement for Indian cricket, the Under-19 women's team clinched their second consecutive ICC Women's Under-19 T20 World Cup title on February 2, 2025, at the Bayuemas Oval in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has recognized this outstanding feat by announcing a substantial cash reward of ₹5 crore for the victorious squad and their dedicated support staff.
Under the astute leadership of captain Niki Prasad and the strategic guidance of head coach Nooshin Al Khadeer, the Indian team showcased unparalleled dominance throughout the tournament. Their journey to the championship was marked by an unblemished record, winning all seven matches and asserting their supremacy in the Under-19 women's cricket arena.
The final match against South Africa was a testament to India's cricketing prowess. Opting to bat first, South Africa faced immediate challenges as Indian bowlers dismantled their top order. The spin quartet of Parunika Sisodia (2 wickets for 6 runs), Aayushi Shukla (2 for 9), Vaishnavi Sharma (2 for 23), and Gongadi Trisha (3 for 15) delivered stellar performances, restricting South Africa to a modest total of 82 runs.
In response, India approached the chase with confidence. Despite the early loss of opener G Kamalini for 8 runs, Gongadi Trisha and Sanika Chalke formed a formidable partnership. Trisha remained unbeaten with a commanding 44 off 33 balls, while Chalke contributed a brisk 26 off 22 deliveries. Their combined efforts led India to a comfortable victory in just 11.2 overs, securing a nine-wicket win and the coveted championship title.
In recognition of the team's exceptional performance, the BCCI announced a cash prize of ₹5 crore to honor both the players and the support staff. The board's official statement read: "The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) extends its heartfelt congratulations to the India Under-19 women's team for successfully defending their title at the ICC Under-19 Women's T20 World Cup 2025 in Malaysia. To honor this remarkable achievement, the BCCI has announced a cash reward of INR 5 crore for the victorious squad and support staff, led by head coach Nooshin Al Khadeer."
BCCI Congratulates #TeamIndia Women’s U19 Team for Back-to-Back T20 World Cup Triumphs, announces a cash reward of INR 5 Crore for the victorious squad and support staff, led by Head Coach Nooshin Al Khadeer.#U19WorldCup
— BCCI (@BCCI) February 2, 2025
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While cricket is inherently a team sport, individual performances often shine through, and this tournament was no exception. Gongadi Trisha emerged as a standout player, not only in the final but throughout the tournament. Accumulating a total of 309 runs, she was India's top scorer and played a pivotal role in several matches. Her all-round capabilities were on full display in the final, where she not only took three crucial wickets but also anchored the chase with her unbeaten 44.
This victory holds significant historical importance. India's Under-19 women's team has now won back-to-back World Cup titles, having secured their first championship in 2023 under the leadership of Shafali Verma. This consecutive triumph underscores the depth of talent and the effectiveness of developmental programs in Indian women's cricket.
As the celebrations continue, the focus will inevitably shift to the future. The challenge now lies in maintaining this momentum and building upon the foundation laid by these young athletes. With the continued support of the BCCI and the passion of the players, the future of women's cricket in India appears promising.
The Indian Under-19 women's cricket team's recent World Cup victory is a landmark achievement that highlights the strength, talent, and potential of women's cricket in the country. The BCCI's recognition through the ₹5 crore reward underscores the significance of this accomplishment and sets the stage for continued success in the years to come.
Also Read: U19 Womens T20 World Cup 2025: Schedule, Teams and all you need to know
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