When Shafali Verma lifted the U19 Women's T20 World Cup title last year in South Africa, India celebrated the glory brought by the young girls.

But on another hand, a certain youngster was gripped by the disappointment of not getting picked for the same team. Two years later, she is set to step out as captain when India take the field in the upcoming mega event in Malaysia. For Niki Prasad, it has been a roller-coaster of a ride.

The last 12 months have been a game-changer for Niki. Back in November 2023, Niki led Karnataka to victory in the Women's Under-19 T20 trophy after beating Karnataka by 30 runs in the final in Amtar. December 2024 has been even more memorable for the 19-year-old. Under her, after beating Bangladesh in the final at the Bayuemas Oval in Kuala Lumpur.

On Tuesday, December 24, Niki was named as the skipper of the Under-19 team for the T20 World Cup. From a personal viewpoint, she had more reasons to cheer for after Delhi Capitals (DC) picked her at her base price of INR 10 lakhs in the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2025 auction that took place in Bengaluru on December 15.

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Nisarg Naik is one of the youngest scouts in India. How has his role been in your growth? When did he spot you, and how has he motivated you?

My first interaction with him was back when I did not get picked for the Women's U19 T20 World Cup last year. After not getting selected, he told me that "I know that you are going to lead in the next World Cup and win it". Throughout those two years, he has been there. He supported me and told me about where I could get better. I am really grateful.Niki Prasad helped Karnataka win the Under-19 T20 Trophy back in November 2023. Courtesy: Niki Prasad

Now that India are the Asia Cup and the reigning world champions, is there any sort of pressure or nervousness going into the World Cup?

I feel all of us are really excited, and we are really looking forward to going to the World Cup. Winning the Asia Cup and getting so much love and support from our Indian fans, our coaches and family is going to give us more confidence and motivation to go out there and do even better for our team. We are motivated to give our best.

Do you believe playing in the Asia Cup might give India an edge over other teams since you will be playing your World Cup matches at the same venue?

Definitely, we have an advantage because we have already played on that ground. We have played five matches over there and we know the conditions. Now we know the atmosphere in Malaysian grounds and know what kind of plans we are looking at for the World Cup that we will be discussing. We are looking forward to doing much better in the World Cup as well.