📅: 02/02/2025
🕑: 12.00 PM IST
📺 📱: DISNEY + HOTSTAR, STAR SPORTS NETWORK (INDIA)
🏟: Bayuemas Oval, Kuala Lumpur
The ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2025 final is set to be a thrilling encounter between India and South Africa, both teams having showcased exceptional performances throughout the tournament in Malaysia. Here's a detailed story of how they've reached this stage:
India's Journey:
India entered the tournament as defending champions, fresh from their victory in the ACC U19 Women's Asia Cup the previous year. They were placed in Group A alongside West Indies, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka. India's campaign began with a series of convincing wins:
Against West Indies: A 9-wicket victory, setting a tone of dominance early on.
Against Malaysia: They clinched a 10-wicket win, further solidifying their position.
Against Sri Lanka: Despite a brief rain interruption, India managed to set a target of 119, which Sri Lanka couldn't chase down, leading to another win by 9 wickets.
In the Super Six stage, India continued their winning streak:
Against Bangladesh: An 8-wicket victory showcased their batting and bowling prowess.
Against Scotland: This match saw India setting a record for the highest total in the tournament with 207-1, with Trisha Gongadi scoring the first-ever century in the tournament's history, leading to a 150-run win.
The semi-final against England was a testament to India's strength. England chose to bat first but could only muster 113/8. India's bowlers, notably Parunika Sisodia and Vaishnavi Sharma, were instrumental in restricting England. In reply, India chased the target with ease, winning by 9 wickets, thanks to significant contributions from G Kamalini and Gongadi Trisha.
South Africa's Journey:
South Africa, on the other hand, entered the tournament with determination to claim their first U19 World Cup title. They were grouped in Group C with Nigeria, New Zealand, and Samoa:
Against Nigeria: A 22-run victory.
Against New Zealand: A 10-wicket win.
Against Samoa: Another convincing 41-run victory.
In the Super Six stage, their match against the USA was abandoned due to rain, but their previous performances ensured they topped their group:
Against Ireland: A 7-wicket win in the first Super Six match.
The semi-final against Australia was a defining moment. South Africa chased down 106 with a 5-wicket victory, showing resilience and tactical acumen. Key performances came from their standout bowler, Kayla Reyneke, with 10 wickets in the tournament, and significant batting contributions in crucial moments.
The Final Clash:
Both teams arrive at the final undefeated, showcasing a combination of skillful batting, sharp bowling, and strategic gameplay. India's batting has been led by Gongadi Trisha, who has the highest run tally in the tournament, alongside Kamalini G, while their bowling attack has been spearheaded by Vaishnavi Sharma, who has taken the most wickets.
South Africa, although perhaps not as prolific with the bat, has shown they can chase targets under pressure, with Kayla Reyneke being a significant all-round threat. The final at Bayuemas Oval promises to be a battle of wits, skill, and perhaps who can handle the pressure better.
This match isn't just about securing another title for India or a historic first for South Africa; it's about showcasing the future of women's cricket on a global stage. The final is scheduled for Sunday, February 2, 2025, at 12 pm IST in Malaysia, with live telecast and streaming available for fans around the world.