Fiery opener Shafali Verma who has represented India senior side in 74 international encounters is enjoying her time in the inaugural edition of women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup 2023. The U19 skipper has noticed a major change in the bowling at junior World Cup. The hard-hitter from Rohtak, Haryana feels that the bowling is easier to face at this level.
"There is lot of difference because the ball is coming in little slow in the U-19 and the wicket is also in the slower side and we are trying to get used to that. And of course, a little bit of difference, seamers have good pace, a good mind-set here also but they are all learning and I really enjoying playing with them," Shafali was quoted as saying by 'Star Sports'.
"I think it's (U-19 T20 World Cup) very important for women's cricket as they way Mithali (Raj) said that for growing up and developing talented players, for them it's very good," the 18-year-old added.
Shafali has been in phenomenal form in the tournament. In the two games, she has led India to big victories she has scored at an astounding strike rate of 246. She is very happy with the performances her team has delivered so far.
“Of course it's very good feeling. It is my first and last because it's my last year of U-19. We have a good team, we are really enjoying with the girls and I hope we will play good cricket and of course we will be here for the world cup and we will try to achieve that," Shafali said.
"I would say we are doing well in batting, bowling and fielding and as captain, I hope we win the World Cup."
While Shafali idolised Sachin Tendulkar like many at a young age, she is in awe of England's hard-hitting batter Liam Livingstone.
"I think now-a-days, I like Livingstone's batting because he's hitting very well. Of course growing up, playing cricket, I used to watch Sachin Tendulkar sir. So, Sachin sir is also my role model.
"I love to watch him, how he played the game and remained calm," she said.
India will now take on Scotland in their third Group D clash on January 18.
