SA’s U19 Women aim for glory in ICC World Cup final against India

Sunday will be a monumental day for South African cricket as the U19 Women's team prepares to battle India in the final of the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup, hosted in Malaysia.

Following an impressive unbeaten run throughout the tournament, the Junior Proteas clinched their spot in the final with a thrilling five-wicket victory over the fierce Australians on Friday.

The highly anticipated clash is set to commence at 8:30am South African time, taking place at the Bayuemas Oval in Kuala Lumpur.

Leg spinner Seshnie Naidu said she was really excited about the final and was looking forward to every moment.

"⁠This World Cup has been an incredible experience for me and it has helped my cricket grow in so many different ways. The highlight thus far would be getting the player of the match because it has always been something I really wanted and worked towards.

"My team won all the games this far because we are one nation and we always played for the people on and off the field. At the last T20 World Cup South Africa made it to the Super 6 stage, but this World Cup we are looking to win it," said Naidu.

Naidu made her international debut when she represented South Africa in a T20 series against Namibia in 2022. In 2023 she was selected for the inaugural edition of the Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup. Last year she joined the Proteas Women in the United Arab Emirates for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024.

Her fellow team mate, Karabo Meso, said there were different emotions as this was their first time in the finals.

"We are going to play our best and win the world cup. It's a day we will forever remember in our cricket careers. I know that I'm playing a big game. I will take every minute and embrace the moment," said Meso.

Cricket SA, head coach, Dinesha Devnarain, said the team had been performing exceptionally well both on and off the field throughout the tournament.

She urged South Africans to rally behind the team as they look to create history.

“This team, like the 2023 squad before them, aims to inspire every young boy and girl to pick up a bat and ball. Beyond winning matches and World Cups, these players are invested in what their success means for South Africa holistically. We’ve felt the support all the way in Malaysia, and it means so much to the team,” said Devnarain.