Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) on Friday bade farewell to the U-19 women’s cricket team, who are set to participate in the ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup in Malaysia later this month.

The second edition of the tournament, scheduled from January 18 to February 2, marks Nepal’s maiden appearance at the global event after their victory in the U-19 Asia Regional Qualifiers in November.

Youth and Sports Minister Teju Lal Chaudhary, CAN Vice-President Roshan Singh, and Secretary Paras Khadka, among others, extended their best wishes to the team during a function in Kathmandu.

The team will depart for Malaysia on Saturday afternoon.

Nepal have been drawn in Group D alongside Australia, Bangladesh and Scotland.

They will kick off their campaign against Bangladesh on January 18, followed by matches against Scotland on January 20 and Australia on January 22.

A total of 16 teams have been divided into four groups of four teams. The top three teams from each group advance into the Super Six stage.

India are the defending champions.

CAN has announced a 15-member squad for the U-19 World Cup under captain Puja Mahato.

The team includes vice-captain Sony Pakhrin, Sana Praveen, Jyotsnika Marasini, Kusum Godar, Alisha Yadav, Sabitri Dhami, Trisana BK, Kiran Kunwar, Riya Sharma, Rachana Chaudhary, Seemana KC, Anu Kadayat and Krishma Gurung.