India storms into U19 Women’s Asia Cup final with a victory over Sri Lanka

The Indian Under-19 women's cricket team has entered the final of the 2024 ACC U19 Women’s T20 Asia Cup after a thrilling 4-wicket win against Sri Lanka in the Super 4 stage at the Bayuemas Cricket Oval.

Chasing a modest target of 99, India sealed the victory in just 14.5 overs, showcasing a balanced performance with both bat and ball.

G Trisha was the top scorer for India, contributing a crucial 32 runs from 24 balls. She built a match-defining 63-run partnership with opener G Kamilini, who scored 28 runs off 26 balls. Despite losing wickets in quick succession, India managed to stay on course, with Chamudi from Sri Lanka taking 3 wickets for 16 runs.

Earlier in the game, Indian skipper Niki Prasad won the toss and opted to bowl first. The decision paid off as Sri Lanka was restricted to just 98/9 in their allotted 20 overs.

The star of the Indian bowling lineup was Aayushi, who delivered a stunning spell of 4/10 in 4 overs. Parunika chipped in with 2 wickets, dismissing key Sri Lankan batters.

Manudi Nanayakkara was the top scorer for Sri Lanka, contributing 33 runs before falling to Parunika in the 19th over. Despite her efforts, the Sri Lankan batting lineup failed to capitalize, with no other batter crossing the 20-run mark.

In the chase, India stumbled early, losing Ishwari for a duck in the very first over. G Kamilini and Trisha steadied the innings, but quick dismissals of both players gave Sri Lanka a glimmer of hope. However, the lower-middle order held their nerve to guide India to victory.

Key Performances:

India:

G Trisha: 32 runs (24 balls)

G Kamilini: 28 runs (26 balls)

Aayushi: 4 wickets for 10 runs

Sri Lanka:

Manudi Nanayakkara: 33 runs

Chamudi: 3 wickets for 16 runs

With this win, the Indian U19 women's team continues their unbeaten run in the tournament and will face the winner of the other Super 4 clash in the final.