Women’s T20 World Cup semifinal: India starts as favourite against England

Women’s T20 World Cup semifinal: India starts as favourite against England

India will look to maintain its perfect campaign when it faces England in the Women’s U-19 T20 World Cup semifinal on Friday.

Led by Niki Prasad, India has dominated across departments. It began with a 10-wicket thrashing of host Malaysia, followed by convincing wins over Sri Lanka (60 runs), Bangladesh (eight wickets), and Scotland (150 runs) in the Super Six stage.

In its last outing, opener Gongadi Trisha smashed a stunning 110 off 59 balls, while partner G Kamalini contributed 51 off 42. Trisha is the tournament’s top scorer with 230 runs at an average of 76.66, far ahead of England’s best batter, Davina Perrin, who has 131 runs from four matches at 32.75.

India’s bowling unit has been equally dominant. Against Scotland, it bundled out the opposition for just 58 in 14 overs, with Vaishnavi Sharma (3/5), Aayushi Shukla (4/8), and Trisha (3/6) starring. Vaishnavi (12 wickets) and Aayushi (10 wickets) have led the attack impressively.

England, meanwhile, has had a mixed run with two wins and two defeats in the Super Six stage. It will need to raise its game to counter India’s formidable batting and in-form bowlers.