Image Credit: usacricket.org
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: The USA Cricket team has unveiled its 15-player squad for the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup, slated for next month in Malaysia.
This marks their second consecutive appearance in the prestigious event, showcasing a mix of seasoned players and emerging talent.
Key Facts:
- The squad is captained by Anika Kolan and vice-captained by Aditiba Chudasama, both veterans of the inaugural 2023 tournament.
- Preparations included a five-match series in the West Indies, where the USA team achieved notable victories.
- All players are of Indian-American descent, reflecting the growing influence of this community in USA cricket.
Image Credit: usacricket.org
The team's journey began with a competitive selection camp in Florida, narrowing down from a 26-member training squad.
The players' recent tour to the West Indies offered vital experience, culminating in a seven-wicket victory in their final match. This momentum is expected to benefit them in the global tournament.
The USA U19 Women’s team will first visit South Africa on January 3 for training and warm-up matches against Cricket South Africa’s U19 Women’s team.
Following this, they will head to Malaysia, ready to face England, Pakistan, and Ireland in the group stages starting January 18.
The squad, featuring regular senior national team players, blends experience with promising newcomers.
As they aim to better their debut campaign from 2023, the team’s success could significantly elevate the sport's profile within the United States.
Head Coach Hilton Moreeng expressed optimism: “The progress the players have shown, especially post-West Indies tour, is remarkable. We aim to play fearless cricket and proudly showcase the growth of USA women’s cricket on the world stage.”
Team Details:
- Anika Reddy Kolan – Captain
- Aditiba Chudasama – Vice Captain
- Chetna Reddy Pagydyala
- Chetnaa G Prasad
- Disha Dhingra
- Isani Mahesh Vaghela
- Lekha Hanumant Shetty
- Maahi Madhavan
- Nikhar Pinku Doshi
- Pooja Ganesh
- Pooja Shah
- Ritu Priya Singh
- Saanvi Immadi
- Sasha Vallabhaneni
- Suhani Thadani
Non-Travelling Reserves:
-
Mitali Patwardhan
-
Taranum Chopra
- Varshita Jambula
The significance of this event extends beyond cricket, symbolizing the diversity and potential of young athletes in America.
Fans are encouraged to support the team as they strive to make history in Malaysia.