PANDAMARAN, Malaysia: India cruised to a commanding nine-wicket victory over Pakistan in the opening Group A match of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Women’s U19 T20 Asia Cup at the Bayuemas Oval cricket stadium in Malaysia on Sunday.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Pakistan’s innings faltered as the Zoofishan Ayyaz-led side managed to post a modest total of 67 runs for the loss of seven wickets in 20 overs.
Wicketkeeper-batter Komal Khan provided some resistance with a 32-ball 24, laced with four boundaries. However, the rest of the batting lineup struggled against India’s disciplined bowling attack.
Sonam Yadav was the standout performer for India, delivering a stellar spell of four wickets for just six runs in her four overs. Her efforts dismantled Pakistan’s batting order, leaving them with a meager total to defend.
India’s response with the bat was swift and decisive. Chasing 68, the Indian side achieved the target in just 7.5 overs, losing only one wicket in the process.
Left-handed batter G Kamilini led the charge with an unbeaten 44 off 29 balls, hitting four boundaries and three sixes. Sanika Chalke contributed 19 runs to the chase.
Fatima Khan was the sole wicket-taker for Pakistan, but her efforts were insufficient to turn the tide.
Following this loss, Pakistan is set to face Nepal in their second Group A match on Monday at 2 PM local time.
The Women’s U19 T20 Asia Cup features six teams divided into two groups. India, Pakistan, and Nepal form Group A, while Group B comprises Bangladesh, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka.
The tournament, played in a T20 format, will see the top two teams from each group advance to the Super-Four stage, scheduled for December 19 and 20.
The grand final is set to take place on December 22. Additionally, placement matches for fifth, sixth, third, and fourth positions will be held on December 18 and 22, respectively.
