Bengaluru: At just 18 years old, Niki Prasad faced disappointment when she was not selected for the inaugural U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup in 2023. However, rather than feeling defeated, this experience ignited a determination within her to address her weaknesses as a cricketer. Fast forward two years, and the Karnataka all-rounder is now poised to captain the Indian team in the upcoming second edition of the tournament set to take place in Malaysia from January 18 to February 2.
The call-up to lead comes shortly after Niki’s impressive performance at the Women’s U-19 Asia Cup held in Kuala Lumpur, where she guided India to victory against Bangladesh. “For more than two years, I dedicated myself to my goals—refining my skills and enhancing my athleticism,” Niki shared with TOI. Expressing her excitement about leading India on an international stage, she added: “Words can hardly capture how I feel. It’s an honor to represent my country and lead this talented group of players. Our aim is clear: we want to defend our title successfully.”
Niki plays as a middle-order batsman while also contributing as a skilled spinner. She emphasizes that teamwork will be crucial for their success at the World Cup. “Having spent over six months together in training camps and competitions has fostered strong bonds among us,” she noted. “We understand each other’s strengths and weaknesses well and are aligned on our objectives.”
Currently pursuing a degree in business management at PES University, Niki draws inspiration from Indian women’s cricket captain Harmanpreet Kaur: “Harman di’s composure both on-field and off-field serves as a great motivation for me.”
In this journey alongside her will be state-mate Mithila Vinod. “It feels amazing having Mithila by my side,” expressed an enthusiastic Niki. “We’ve played numerous age-group matches together; now we’re living our dream of representing our nation.”
Niki also took time during her interview to express gratitude towards her coaches and support staff back home in Karnataka: “The encouragement I’ve received from everyone has been invaluable,” she said appreciatively. “Mamtha Maben was incredibly supportive when I debuted for my state team; now Karuna Jain continues pushing me toward excellence with constructive feedback that helps me focus.”
As defending champions, India finds itself placed in Group A alongside Malaysia, West Indies, and Sri Lanka—kicking off their campaign against West Indies.
Squad Overview:
- Captain: Niki Prasad
- Vice-captain: Sanika Chalke
- Players: G Trisha, Kamalini G (WK), Bhavika Ahire (WK), Ishwari Awasare, Mithila Vinod, Joshitha VJ, Sonam Yadav,
Parunika Sisodiya,
Kesari Drithi,
Aayushi Shukla,
Anandita Kishor,
MD Shabnam,
Vaishnavi S.
Standby Players: Nandhana S., Ira J., Anadi T.
With high hopes riding on them as they prepare for this prestigious tournament once again under new leadership—and with lessons learned from past experiences—the Indian squad aims not only for victory but also personal growth throughout their journey ahead.
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