ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025: Schedule, Teams and Groups, Venues, Key Players
The ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025 is set to commence on January 18, 2025, in Malaysia. This tournament will feature 16 teams competing over 41 matches, concluding on February 2, 2025. The event aims to showcase emerging talent in women’s cricket.
- Tournament Dates: January 18 – February 2, 2025
- Host Country: Malaysia
- Number of Teams: 16
- Total Matches: 41
Tournament Structure and Schedule
The tournament begins with a group stage, followed by the Super Six, semi-finals, and the final. In the group stage, teams are divided into four groups of four. Each team plays against the others in its group. The top three teams from each group advance to the Super Six stage. Here, teams are split into two groups of six, carrying forward results against other qualified teams. They then play against teams they haven’t faced yet. The top two teams from each Super Six group proceed to the semi-finals, leading to the final match on February 2, 2025.
Participating Teams and Groupings
The 16 teams are divided into four groups:
- Group A: India, West Indies, Sri Lanka, Malaysia
- Group B: Pakistan, USA, England, Ireland
- Group C: New Zealand, Nigeria, South Africa, Samoa
- Group D: Australia, Bangladesh, Nepal, Scotland
Each group promises exciting matches as teams vie for a spot in the Super Six stage.
Venues Across Malaysia
Matches will be held at four venues:
- Bayuemas Oval in Pandamaran
- Johor Cricket Academy Oval in Johor
- UKM-YSD Cricket Oval in Bangi
- Borneo Cricket Ground in Sarawak
These venues are prepared to host both group and Super Six matches, with the final stages scheduled at Bayuemas Oval.
Spotlight on Key Players
Several young talents are expected to shine:
- G Kamalini (India): At 16, Kamalini is a promising left-handed batter, anticipated to play a pivotal role for India.
- Maggie Clark (Australia): As the leading wicket-taker from the 2023 tournament, Clark brings experience and skill to Australia’s squad.
- Karabo Meso (South Africa): Renowned for her consistency as a wicketkeeper, Meso is a key player for South Africa.
India’s Squad Details
India’s squad, led by Niki Prasad, includes:
- Sanika Chalke (Vice-Captain)
- G Trisha
- Kamalini G
- Bhavika Ahire
- Ishwari Awasare
- Mithila Vinod
- Joshitha VJ
- Sonam Yadav
- Parunika Sisodiya
- Kesari Drithi
- Aayushi Shukla
- Anandita Kishor
- MD Shabnam
- Vaishnavi S
This lineup blends experience and emerging talent, aiming to defend their title successfully.
Australia’s Squad Highlights
Australia’s squad features five players returning for their second U19 T20 World Cup:
- Chloe Ainsworth
- Maggie Clark
- Lucy Hamilton
- Eleanor Larosa
- Kate Pelle
Their experience is expected to bolster Australia’s performance in the tournament.
West Indies Team Composition
The West Indies squad, captained by Samara Ramnath, includes:
- Asabi Callender
- Abigail Bryce
- Kenika Cassar
- Jahzara Claxton
- Denella Creese
- NaiJanni Cumberbatch
- Erin Deane
- Amiah Gilbert
- Trisha Hardat
- Brianna Harricharan
- Amrita Ramtahal
- Selena Ross
- Kristen Sutherland
- Aaliyah Weekes
This team is set to make a significant impact in the competition.
Tournament Format and Progression
The tournament’s structure ensures a competitive environment:
- Group Stage: Teams play against others in their group.
- Super Six Stage: Top three teams from each group advance, carrying forward results, and play against new opponents.
- Semi-Finals and Final: Top teams from the Super Six groups compete for a place in the final, culminating on February 2, 2025.
This format is designed to identify the most consistent and skilled team as the champion.
Anticipation and Expectations
As the tournament approaches, excitement builds among fans and players. The ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup serves as a platform for young cricketers to showcase their talents on an international stage.