U19WC: Indian Women Kick Off Title Defense with 9-Wicket Victory Over West Indies
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Synopsis
In a stunning display, India’s U19 women’s team commenced their World Cup title defense with a decisive nine-wicket triumph against the West Indies, led by stellar performances from Parunika Sisodia, Joshitha VJ, and Aayushi Shukla, who collectively took seven wickets to dismantle the West Indies batting lineup.
Key Takeaways
- India's bowlers excelled, taking seven wickets.
- Joshitha VJ was named Player of the Match.
- India bowled out West Indies for just 44 runs.
- The chase was completed in just 4.2 overs.
- India's performance builds on warm-up victories.
Kuala Lumpur, Jan 19 (NationPress) Parunika Sisodia, Joshitha VJ, and Aayushi Shukla collectively secured seven wickets as India embarked on their U19 World Cup title defense with an impressive nine-wicket victory against the West Indies at the Bayuemas Oval on Sunday.
After choosing to bowl first following the toss, India swiftly took charge of the match. Joshitha, awarded Player of the Match, struck early for India with figures of 2-5 in just two overs, paving the way for Parunika (3-7) and Aayushi (2-6) to dismiss the West Indies for a mere 44 runs in 13.2 overs.
The West Indies' poor running between the wickets contributed to three run-outs, further aiding India's cause. In response, India chased down the target in only 4.2 overs, with Sanika Chalke and wicketkeeper G Kamalini finishing not out at 18 and 16 runs, respectively.
Joshitha initiated India's attack with her incisive opening spell, where she trapped West Indies captain Samara Ramnath lbw in her second over and then dismissed Naijanni Cumberbatch for a golden duck.
Following Parunika and Aayushi's contributions, India's fielders excelled with three run-outs that dismantled the West Indies innings. Aayushi managed to claim another wicket, while Parunika completed her three-wicket haul.
During the chase, G Trisha scored on her first ball but was caught off a brilliant delivery by Jahzara Claxton on the very next ball. Sanika sparkled with three boundaries, particularly through the cover area.
Kamalini also hit three fours, including the match-winning shot that sailed over the wicketkeeper's head, securing a commanding victory for India just as rain began to fall.
The team, led by Niki Prasad, entered the group stage on the back of strong victories against South Africa and Scotland in the warm-up matches and will face the hosts, Malaysia, on Tuesday.
Brief Scores: West Indies 44 in 13.2 overs (Kenika Cassar 15, Asabi Callendar 12; Parunika Sisodia 3-7, Joshitha VJ 2-5) lost to India 47/1 in 4.2 overs (Sanika Chalke 18 not out, G Kamalini 16 not out; Jahzara Claxton 1-18) by nine wickets.
