Group C of the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup features an interesting mix of two returning countries and two newcomers.
New Zealand
New Zealand, one of the ten countries who qualified based on their performance in the tournament’s first staging in 2023, will aim to be one of the main players in Malaysia.
Georgia Plimmer’s development is evidence that the occasion offers the ideal setting for up-and-coming talent.
Plimmer averaged over 50 runs per game two years ago and is now a mainstay in the White Ferns senior squad. Fran Jonas and Izzy Gaze followed in her footsteps, helping the team win the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024.
Having lost to India by eight wickets in the semi-finals, New Zealand will want to improve this time.
“The opportunity has given me invaluable experience and knowledge,” skipper Tash Wakelin said.
South Africa
As hosts two years ago, South Africa advanced to the Super 6 and will always be the first country to host the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup.
With seven players coming back for a second chance, the club is focused on improving that performance, which features an enticing blend of experience and freshness.
Proteas captain Laura Wolvaardt has reserved special appreciation for spinner Seshnie Naidu and wicketkeeper Karabo Meso, both of whom have played in the senior international setup.
Regarding Naidu, Wolvaardt remarked, “I thought she has good control for such a young leg-spinner.” “I hope she gets as much game time as she can because it’s really exciting for the future.”
Nigeria
After Rwanda qualified for the first edition, Nigeria followed suit by making it to the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup for the first time through the Africa Qualifier stages.
The West African country beat Zimbabwe to the ticket after earning more points in the group rounds, and they sealed their place in Malaysia following a washout in their regional qualification final.
During the qualification, Victory Igbinedion attracted attention with a string of outstanding batting displays.
Lucky Piety Ebosetale’s team is determined to make an impression and give some surprises as they make their tournament debut after a “intense, productive, and fun” preparatory camp.
“The primary goal of our team is to compete and strive for the tournament’s highest goal,” Ebosetale stated.
“I see this as a chance to play on a large stage and give it my all, not just for the team but also for myself and Nigeria.” Our ultimate goal is to leave a lasting impression on the competition and to make our nation proud.”
Samoa
This is also Samoa’s first opportunity to shine on the global scene.
At the East Asia-Pacific Qualifier in May 2024, they excelled, becoming the first Samoan team to earn a spot in a world competition.
Angel Sootaga provided a steady stream of runs combined with an even distribution of wicket-taking bowlers, helping Avetia Fetu Mapu’s team win five of their six games and only lose to Papua New Guinea.
The first game in Group C, which Samoa plays against fellow newcomers Nigeria, is expected to be very important in determining which teams move on to the Super 6 level.
“Our primary goal is to play with unity, pride, and heart,” Mapu stated.
Our goal is to represent Samoa as effectively as possible, both on and off the pitch. Aiming to win games and move in the tournament is undoubtedly vital, but so is learning, developing, and gaining experience from competing at this level.
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