The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has announced the launch of the Women’s Under-19 T20 Asia Cup, a biennial tournament designed to foster the development of young female cricketers in Asia. This initiative follows the successful inaugural edition of the Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup held last year.
The ACC’s executive board meeting in Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday marked the official announcement of the tournament. The inaugural edition is scheduled for mid-December 2024, serving as a preparatory event for the Under-19 T20 World Cup in Malaysia from January to February 2025. The venue and number of participating teams for the 2024 Asia Cup are yet to be determined.
ACC President Jay Shah hailed the tournament’s launch as a “pivotal moment for cricket in Asia.” He emphasized the importance of providing a platform for young women cricketers to hone their skills and showcase their talent. Shah expressed confidence that the initiative would have a lasting impact on women’s cricket in Asia and the global cricketing community.
The Women’s Under-19 T20 Asia Cup will complement the existing Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup, providing a regular competitive environment for young Asian cricketers. The tournament will offer opportunities for players to gain valuable experience, develop their abilities, and prepare for the highest level of international cricket.
The ACC’s commitment to promoting women’s cricket aligns with the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) strategic plan to grow the game among women and girls. The launch of the Women’s Under-19 T20 Asia Cup is a significant step towards achieving this goal and ensuring a bright future for women’s cricket in Asia.
