The second edition of the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup is set to begin in Malaysia on January 18th, 2024, with defending champions India looking to defend their title. The tournament will feature 12 teams vying for the coveted trophy. India, who defeated England in the inaugural edition in South Africa last year, will kick off their campaign against West Indies in Group A.
The tournament will be played in a round-robin format with four groups. India is grouped with host Malaysia, West Indies, and Sri Lanka. The other groups consist of:
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Group B:
England, Pakistan, Ireland, and USA.*
Group C:
New Zealand, South Africa, an African Qualifier, and Samoa.*
Group D:
Australia, Bangladesh, an Asian Qualifier, and Scotland.Following the group stage, the top three teams from each group will progress to the Super Six stage. The bottom-ranked teams from Groups A and D, and B and C will play in a last place playoff on January 24th.
The Super Six stage will see the teams further divided into two groups based on their group stage performances. The top three teams from Groups A and D will form Group 1, while the top three from Groups B and C will form Group 2. Each team will carry forward their points, wins, and Net Run Rate (NRR) from the group stage matches against other Super Six qualifying sides.
In the Super Six stage, each team will play two matches against opponents from the corresponding group who finished in different positions. The top two teams from each Super Six group will then qualify for the semifinals, which will be held on January 31st. The final is scheduled for February 2nd, with both the semifinals and final taking place at Bayuemas Oval.
If India manages to qualify for the semifinals, they will play in semifinal 2, which is also scheduled for January 31st. Reserve days have been allocated for both the semifinals and the final, with February 1st serving as a reserve day for the semifinals and February 3rd for the final.
The tournament is set to be an exciting one, with some of the world’s best young female cricketers looking to make their mark on the international stage. Fans are sure to be treated to some thrilling matches and incredible performances as the teams battle it out for the championship title.