India defeat South Africa to win back-to-back Women's U-19 T20 World Cups

India’s U-19 women’s team delivered a commanding performance to defeat South Africa and clinch their second consecutive ICC Women’s U-19 T20 World Cup title at Bayuemas Oval on Sunday. All-rounder Gongadi Trisha played a pivotal role, taking 3/15 with the ball before scoring an unbeaten 44 runs to guide India to a comfortable chase.

South Africa, opting to bat first, struggled against India’s disciplined bowling attack, posting a mere 82 runs in their 20 overs. Mieke van Voorst was the top scorer with 23 off 18 balls, while Jemma Botha (16), Fay Cowling (15), and Karabo Meso (10) were the only others to reach double figures.

Trisha was the standout bowler with three wickets, while Parunika Sisodia, Aayushi Shukla, and Vaishnavi Sharma took two wickets each. Shabnam Shakil also contributed with one wicket.

India made light work of the target, chasing it down in just 11.2 overs, winning by nine wickets with 52 balls to spare. Trisha led the charge with a quickfire 44 off 33 balls, hitting eight boundaries. She was well supported by Sanika Chalke, who remained unbeaten on 26 off 22 balls.

South Africa’s Kayla Reyneke was the only bowler to take a wicket.

Trisha’s all-round brilliance earned her the ‘Player of the Match’ award, and she was also named ‘Player of the Tournament,’ having scored 309 runs and taken seven wickets throughout the competition.

Reflecting on the victory, Trisha said, "It means everything to me, right now I’m not able to say anything. Thank you to everyone for supporting me. My plan was to focus on my strengths, and I did the same today. I always look up to Mithali di."

She dedicated her performance to her father, who was present at the match, adding, "I always consider myself an allrounder. My goal is to play for the country and win more matches."

India completed the tournament undefeated, successfully defending their title. Two years ago, they won the inaugural ICC Women’s U19 T20 World Cup under the captaincy of Shafali Verma.