The much-awaited Women’s U19 Asia Cup is scheduled to be held from December 15 to December 22 at the Bayuemas Cricket Oval in Malaysia. Following their impressive showing in the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier, Nepal has announced their squad for this important event, revealing a blend of established players and emerging talent.
Nepal’s recent achievements in the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier have secured their place in the 2025 global championship. The team excelled in the Qualifier, winning five out of six matches, with their most significant victory against the UAE, where they successfully chased down 84 runs in just 14.4 overs to emerge victorious.
During the 2025 ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup, Nepal will compete in Group D alongside Australia, Bangladesh, and Scotland, as 16 teams battle for the prestigious title.
The squad for the Asia Cup has seen some changes from the team that participated in the World Cup Qualifier. Pooja Mahato will serve as captain, supported by Soni Pakhrin as her vice-captain. While key players such as Mahato, Pakhrin, Sana Praveen, and Rachana Chaudhary retain their places, several newcomers have been included for the Asia Cup.
New additions like Alisha Kumari Yadav, Trishana BK, Kiran Kumari Kunwar, and Anu Kadayat have joined the lineup, while Manisha Kumari Upadhyay will not be part of the squad this time.
The Nepal U19 Women’s team displayed impressive consistency in the Asia Qualifier, with captain Puja Mahato leading the charge by scoring an impressive 272 runs across six matches. She was well-supported by Sana Praveen, who contributed 143 runs, and Soni Pakhrin, who added 119 runs. Sabitri Dhami also made a noteworthy contribution with 70 runs.
In terms of bowling, Rachana Chaudhary stood out, claiming 10 wickets, including a four-wicket haul. Puja Mahato showcased her all-round abilities by taking eight wickets, while Riya Sharma also made her mark with nine wickets, achieving a best of three in one match. Both Seema KC and Krishma Gurung were key contributors as well, with seven wickets each, and Gurung achieving an impressive four wickets in just four outings.
The Women’s U19 Asia Cup will consist of two groups. Nepal is placed in Group A along with renowned teams India and Pakistan, while Group B includes Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the host nation Malaysia. The tournament will begin with group-stage matches, leading to the fifth-place playoff on December 18. The top two teams from each group will progress to the Super Four stage on December 19 and 20, culminating in the final on December 22.
Nepal’s participation in Malaysia will undoubtedly be a valuable opportunity for their players to gear up for the 2025 U19 Women’s T20 World Cup and leave a significant impression on the international stage.
Puja Mahato, Soni Pakhrin, Sana Praveen, Jyotsnika Marasini, Kusum Godar, Sabitri Dhami, Krishma Gurung, Riya Sharma, Rachana Chaudhary, Seemana KC, Sneha Mahara, Alisha Kumari Yadav, Trishana BK, Kiran Kumari Kunwar, and Anu Kadayat.
Image Source: Puja Mahato @ Instagram
