Excelsior Sports Correspondent
JAMMU, Oct 8: The JKCA U-19 women’s cricket team concluded their T20 season with a disappointing series of performances, marked by inconsistent play and insufficient coaching. What was meant to be a showcase of emerging talent ended in crushing defeats. A lack of proper preparation and precision was evident from the start, as players struggled to meet competitive standards.
In their final match against Kerala, the team failed to chase a target of 153, finishing with 111 runs and losing by 42. Captain Mahika Singh, who had struggled all season, posted her highest score of 30, while Alisa Jan and Manya Banotra contributed 15 and 19 runs, respectively. However, the rest of the team struggled to make significant contributions.
Bowling offered some respite, with Manya Banotra taking 4 wickets, and Mahika Singh and Ananya Dogra each securing 2 wickets. Despite some individual promise, the team’s lack of cohesion and strategic planning was evident.
Season statistics underscored the challenges, with Shambhavi Rajput leading the runs tally at 73, and Manya Banotra contributing 67. However, most players, including key contributors like Ananya Dogra and Sania Slathia, underperformed. The season’s results highlight the need for JKCA to reassess coaching strategies and player development to ensure future success in women’s cricket.