India secured their spot in the Super Six of the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup with a commanding 60-run victory over Sri Lanka. Opener G Trisha’s resilient 49 and a devastating spell of new-ball bowling from India’s pacers set the tone for the win, as the team remained unbeaten in Group A.
Trisha’s Vital 49 Anchors India’s Innings
On a pitch that proved tricky for batters, Trisha’s 44-ball knock of 49 (including five fours and a six) was a standout. Her composed innings was crucial in taking India to a competitive total of 118 for nine.
India’s batting lineup struggled to adapt to the pitch, with wickets falling regularly. Yet, Trisha stood firm, mixing caution with calculated aggression. Her ability to place shots smartly and her audacious six over long-off against Shashni Gimhani were key highlights.
Despite a late collapse, Trisha’s efforts ensured India had a defendable total, which proved more than sufficient given their bowling strength.
Pacers Dominate Sri Lanka’s Top Order
India’s pace duo of VJ Joshitha and Shabnam wasted no time in dismantling Sri Lanka’s top order. Within just 3.2 overs, Sri Lanka was reeling at nine for four, courtesy of a fiery spell that left their batters with no answers.
Adding to their woes, a sharp run-out of Sri Lankan captain Manudi Nanayakkara further dented the chase. By the end of the fourth over, the scoreboard read a dismal 12 for five.
Spin Completes the Job
With the pacers wreaking havoc early on, India’s spinners ensured there was no comeback for Sri Lanka. Left-arm orthodox bowler Parunika Sisodia emerged as the standout performer among the spinners, claiming figures of two for seven.
Sri Lanka’s lone resistance came from Rashmika Sewwandi, who scored 15 off 12 balls, including two boundaries. However, with the required run rate climbing, she fell to a well-placed catch in the deep while trying to attack Sisodia.
Ayushi Shukla and Vaishnavi Sharma, who shone with a five-wicket haul in the previous game against Malaysia, joined Sisodia in mopping up the lower order. Sri Lanka could only muster 58 for nine in their 20 overs.
India’s Dominance in Group A
India’s comprehensive win against Sri Lanka marked their third consecutive victory in Group A, ensuring they entered the Super Six stage as table toppers. Their clinical performances with both bat and ball showcased the depth and balance of the squad.
Key highlights of India’s group-stage campaign:
- A stunning bowling display by Vaishnavi Sharma against Malaysia (5/5).
- G Trisha’s consistency with the bat, anchoring crucial innings.
- A versatile bowling attack that adapts seamlessly to conditions.
What’s Next for India?
With momentum firmly on their side, India heads into the Super Six as strong contenders. Their performances thus far have demonstrated a blend of skill, strategy, and composure under pressure.
While the team looks well-rounded, further challenges await as they face tougher opponents in the next stage. However, with players like Trisha and the pace-spin combo firing on all cylinders, India has every reason to be confident.
