Cricket Canada has named its U19 Women’s squad for the upcoming tour of Trinidad and Tobago, marking an important step in the country’s developmental pathway. The initiative reflects a broader effort to expose young players to overseas conditions and strengthen their readiness for international competition.
The tour will take the squad into Caribbean conditions, offering experience on slower pitches and in humid environments, which are expected to test both technical and mental aspects of their game.
Leadership and Squad Composition
The team will be led by Rabbjyot Rajput, with Vritti Dahiya serving as vice-captain. The squad includes a mix of emerging players and those already gaining recognition, aiming to create a balanced unit for the tour.
Wicketkeeping duties will be handled by Khadeeja Fatima and Elyssa Sun, while players such as Snigdha Malhotra and Harper Chalmers are among those expected to feature prominently during the trip.
Demanding Tour Schedule
The tour features a 12-match schedule in just over two weeks, including five fixtures against the Trinidad and Tobago U19 side. The team will also face local opposition such as the UWI Women’s team and North Zone Cricket Academy.
This extensive match programme is designed to provide competitive exposure and simulate the demands of international cricket.
Development Focus
The initiative is part of the #sheCANcricket campaign, aimed at promoting the growth of women’s cricket in Canada. The tour is intended to bridge the gap between domestic cricket in North America and higher international standards by placing players in a more competitive environment.
Facing Caribbean opposition is expected to help players adapt to different styles of play, including the region’s aggressive approach.
The squad will be guided by head coach Azib Hanif and assistant coach Jay Nayakwade, with a focus on refining technical skills and match awareness. Aditi Ganesh is also part of the touring group, providing medical support.
The long-term objective is to prepare this group for upcoming ICC U19 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers, ensuring they gain the experience required to compete at that level.
Canada U19 Women’s Squad
Rabbjyot Rajput (captain), Vritti Dahiya (vice-captain), Khadeeja Fatima (wk), Elyssa Sun, Snigdha Malhotra, Harper Chalmers, Hasini Santhoshkumar, Maren Couch, Prakriti Jaiswal, Neha Teny, Rameen Rashid, Sanjana Rao, Shreya Vora, Namrit Dhillon.
