India on Sunday won their maiden ICC title in women’s cricket with an emphatic seven-wicket victory over England. The Shafali Verma-led squad managed to do what their seniors could not do by clearing the final hurdle at a global event.
India first bundled out England for 68 in 17.1 overs and then returned to knock off the paltry target in 14 overs to lift the coveted trophy.
India’s bowling attack, led by pacer Titas Sadhu and supported by leg-spinner Parshavi Chopra, set up the comprehensive win as they blew England away with a clinical display at Senwes Park.
While Sadhu showed that Indian women’s pace bowling is in safe hands following the retirement of Jhulan Goswami with impressive figures of 4-0-6-2, Chopra too continued her dream run as she snapped two for 13.
Chasing 69, Shafali started with a boundary off Hannah Baker before launching Sophia Smale for a maximum. But Baker came back to get rid of the India skipper, who was caught by Alexa Stonehouse in the 3rd over.
Opening batter Shweta Sehrawat was also back in the hut after giving a simple catch to Baker off Grace Scrivens in the fourth over.
Soumya Tiwari (24 not out) and Gongadi Trisha (24) then dug their heels in with a 46-run partnership.
With four runs needed, Trisha was cleaned up by Stonehouse as Tiwari knocked off the winning runs.
“Congratulations to Team India for winning the inaugural Under 19 Women’s T20 World Cup for Cricket! These talented young girls put up an outstanding performance. These champions are an inspiration for our youth, especially the girls. The historic win has made India proud,” tweeted Indian President Droupadi Murmu.
“Congratulations to the Indian Team for a special win… They have played excellent cricket and their success will inspire several upcoming cricketers. Best wishes to the team for their future endeavors” tweeted PM Modi.
Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur said women’s cricket is on the upswing. “You did it! Congratulations to our young champions! May this be the beginning of many more victories for our budding players in their careers! Women’s cricket is inspiring & on the upswing,” he said.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a reward of Rs 5 crore for the entire India squad and support staff.