The U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup witnessed thrilling clashes as Bangladesh, New Zealand, and the USA secured spots in the Super Six stage. In Group D, Bangladesh clinched a crucial win against Scotland, led by leg-spinner Anisa Akter Soba’s outstanding 4-for-25 performance.
Meanwhile, New Zealand bounced back from earlier defeats to dominate Samoa in a rain-affected match in Group C. In a Group B top-table clash, England overpowered the USA with a commanding eight-wicket victory.
Bangladesh’s journey to the Super Six began with a shaky start against Scotland, as their batting lineup struggled early and found themselves at 50 for 5 after 10 overs. A stabilizing 38-run partnership between Afia Ashima and captain Sumaiya Akter helped revive their innings. Ashima contributed 21, while Sumaiya remained unbeaten with a crucial 28 off 36 balls, guiding Bangladesh to a modest total of 120 for 9.
In response, Scotland started positively but faltered when Soba dismissed Emma Walsingham and triggered a collapse. Despite a fighting 43 off 41 balls from wicketkeeper Pippa Sproul and a 50-run stand with captain Niamh Muir, the team fell short, ending their chase at 103 for 8. Soba’s brilliant bowling and key breakthroughs ensured Bangladesh’s victory and qualification.
New Zealand’s redemption came against Samoa after losses to South Africa and Nigeria. Reduced to 12 for 3 early in their innings, Eve Wolland and Anika Todd steadied the ship with a vital 55-run stand for the fourth wicket. Wolland top-scored with 48 off 43 balls, including two fours and two sixes, while Todd chipped in with 27 off 19. Their efforts propelled New Zealand to 107 for 9 despite impressive bowling from Samoa’s Olive Lefaga, who took three wickets.
Defending a modest total, New Zealand’s bowlers put up a dominant performance. Rishika Jaswal and Tash Wakelin each claimed three wickets, while Sophie Court added two. Samoa’s batting crumbled, failing to reach double digits, as they were bundled out for just 40 runs, handing New Zealand a comprehensive win and a place in the next round.
In Group B, England emerged victorious over the USA in a highly anticipated encounter. Batting first, USA captain Anika Kolan anchored her team’s innings with an unbeaten 46 off 42 balls, taking the total to a respectable 119 for 5. England’s Prisha Thanawala and Trudy Johnson chipped in with two wickets each to restrict the USA’s scoring.
England’s chase began poorly with opener Erin Thomas dismissed for a golden duck. However, Davina Perrin’s magnificent 74 off 45 balls, supported by Johnson’s unbeaten 44, turned the game around. The pair shared an unbroken 117-run stand, finishing the chase in style. England captain Abi Norgrove hit the winning run to secure an eight-wicket win, maintaining their unbeaten run in the tournament.
These matches showcased the resilience and determination of the young cricketers, with standout performances from players like Soba, Wolland, and Perrin highlighting their potential on the international stage. As the tournament progresses, the Super Six promises even more competitive action as the top teams battle for glory.