KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – With nerves of steel and a captain’s instinct, Samara Ramnath led the West Indies Under-19 Women to their first victory in emphatic style, clinching a spot in the Super Six stage of the ICC Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup.
The Caribbean team defeated hosts Malaysia by a commanding 53 runs in their final Group A clash Thursday, showcasing grit and determination under pressure.
In a must-win encounter for both sides, Ramnath’s outstanding four-wicket haul, coupled with a crucial late surge by the Windies batters, secured a hard-fought triumph and extinguished Malaysia’s hopes of advancing further.
Late batting charge lifts Windies to respectable total
The West Indies endured a slow start, crawling to 37 for one by the halfway point of their innings. However, the final 10 overs ignited with fireworks as the team added 75 runs to post a competitive 112 for seven.
Opening batter Asabi Callender was the linchpin of the innings, scoring a steady 30 off 42 balls, while Jahzara Claxton chipped in with a vital 19 off just 14 deliveries. All-rounder Abigail Bryce contributed 14 runs in a late flurry.
Malaysia’s bowlers, Nur Syafiqa (2-26) and Siti Nazwah (2-28), delivered disciplined spells, but their efforts couldn’t contain the Windies’ late assault.
Ramnath’s devastation leaves Malaysia in tatters
In pursuit of a modest target of 113, Malaysia started with promise, racing to 30 for one after five overs. However, the hosts’ optimism quickly turned into despair as the Windies bowlers tightened the noose.
Captain Samara Ramnath was unplayable, finishing with stunning figures of four for six in her four overs. Her spell included two pivotal wickets in the 11th over, where she clean-bowled opposing skipper Nur Syuhada for 12 and trapped Nur Syafiqa lbw for a duck.
Malaysia’s collapse was further expedited by the spin duo of Erin Deane and Naijanni Cumberbatch, who claimed two wickets apiece and dismantled the lower order. The hosts faltered to 59 all out in 18 overs, losing their last six wickets for just 21 runs.
Claxton’s early brilliance sets the tone
The turning point came early when Nuni Farini was run out by a sharp direct hit from Claxton, reducing Malaysia to 14 for one. Claxton later claimed the wicket of Farini, caught behind for a painstaking one off 22 balls.
The West Indies’ fielding and bowling were relentless, leaving the Malaysian batters unable to counter the pressure or capitalize on their strong start.
Victory secures Windies’ Super Six berth
The crucial win placed the West Indies as the third-best team in Group A, ensuring their advancement to the Super Six stage. Meanwhile, Malaysia bowed out of the tournament, winless after three matches.
“This was a must-win game, and the girls delivered under pressure,” said an elated Ramnath. “I’m proud of our fight and how we executed our plans today.”
As the competition heats up, the West Indies will look to build on their momentum and continue their journey in the Super Six stage, buoyed by the inspiration of their captain’s sterling leadership.
