India and Sri Lanka began their Under-19 Women's World Cup campaigns with resounding victories, powered by stellar bowling performances. Defending champions India demolished West Indies for a mere 44 runs, sealing a nine-wicket win, while Sri Lanka crushed hosts Malaysia by 139 runs, bundling them out for just 23 earlier in the day.
In the second game, India's bowlers made the most of their decision to bowl first, dismantling West Indies with a lethal mix of swing and spin. Fast bowler VJ Joshitha struck early, dismissing Samara Ramnath lbw and having Naijanni Cumberbatch caught brilliantly by Sanika Chalke at slip on consecutive deliveries.
Left-arm spinners Aayushi Shukla and Parunika Sisodia piled on the pressure, removing Jahzara Claxton and Brianna Harricharan for ducks. West Indies slumped to 17 for 4 within 5.1 overs, and three quick run-outs added to their woes. Shukla and Sisodia mopped up the tail, finishing with 2 for 7 and 3 for 7, respectively.
Chasing 45, India lost Gongadi Trisha early but wrapped up the chase in just 4.2 overs, with G Kamalini and Chalke leading the way.
In Kuala Lumpur, Sri Lanka set the tone in the opening game, scoring 162 after being put in to bat. Sanjana Kavindi (30 off 13) and Dahami Sanethma (55 off 52) provided a strong start, with valuable contributions from Hiruni Hansika (28 off 21) and Shashini Gimhani (13 off 7).
Malaysia struggled in response, bowled out for just 23 in 14.1 overs. Left-arm spinner Chamodi Praboda took 3 for 5, striking twice in the second over to leave Malaysia reeling at 2 for 3. Manudi Nanayakkara and Limansa Thilakarathna claimed two wickets each, as six Malaysian batters failed to score.
Both India and Sri Lanka have sent a strong message with their dominant performances to kickstart their campaigns.
Updated on 20th January, 2025 by MyFortune11 Team.