KUCHING: Sarawak’s women’s cricket pipeline continues to gain momentum after three players were included in Malaysia’s squad for the International Cricket Council (ICC) Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup Asia Regional Qualifier 2026.
Aina Umaira Amin and Nur Qaireen Syakira Abedul Samad were named in the national squad, while fellow Sarawakian Annisa Fateehah was listed among the reserve players for the regional qualifying tournament scheduled to take place in Hong Kong from April 20 to 29.
At just 15 years old, Aina stands out as the youngest player in the Malaysian Under-19 women’s squad, marking an early milestone in her cricket journey.
The SMK Singai student, from one of Sarawak’s recognised Cricket Development Centres, recently impressed while representing the state by scoring 32 runs off 36 balls and claiming 1 wicket for 8 runs in four overs, earning ‘Player of the Match’ honours.
The squad was announced by the Malaysia Cricket Association (MCA) following a national selection process based on players’ performances and development potential.
According to MCA, players were assessed based on performance data and national selection criteria to ensure the squad reflects current form, consistency and long-term development potential.
The Asian regional qualifier will feature emerging teams from across the continent competing for progression to the ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup.
Selected players are expected to undergo centralised training as Malaysia intensifies preparations ahead of the qualifying campaign in Hong Kong.
