In a significant move for women’s cricket in the Northeast, the Assam women’s cricket team, led by the dynamic Rashmi Dey, has set off for Malaysia to play a much-anticipated five-match One Day series.
The tour, scheduled from July 7th to July 15th, 2025, marks another exciting chapter in Assam’s quest for international exposure, development, and recognition in women’s cricket.
The series began with a bang for the Indians, as Assam clinched a convincing six-wicket win over Malaysia at the Bayuemas Oval in Kuala Lumpur. Chasing a modest total of 149, set by the hosts, Assam demonstrated composure and skill, headlined by a clinical bowling performance and composed run chase, setting the tone for the remainder of the series.
Skipper Rashmi Dey’s tactical acumen and the team’s youthful energy were on full display as they outpaced the Malaysian side led by Elsa Hunter, a player who has made waves as one of Malaysia’s brightest stars.
For Malaysia, fresh from their participation in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Asia Region Qualifier in Thailand this May, the series provides another opportunity to test their mettle. Malaysia posted a mixed bag of results in the Qualifier, registering one win and one defeat, and will be looking to sharpen their skills in the 50-over format.
The Assam women’s team arrives in Malaysia after their campaign in the Senior Women’s One Day Trophy 2024, where they finished 6th in Group B with 12 points (3 wins, 4 defeats). While they missed out on a semifinal berth, Assam’s spirited performances, marked by flashes of individual brilliance and team synergy, hinted at a side on the rise.
The 2025 tour is particularly significant for Assam. Situated in a region often underrepresented at the national stage, the team’s journey underscores the growing interest and investment in women’s cricket in Northeast India. For Rashmi Dey, the tour is an opportunity to both inspire a new generation back home and to further forge her team’s identity against international opposition.
Some players to watch out for as the series moves ahead are the likes of Assam’s skipper, Rashmi Dey. Renowned for her leadership and all-round abilities, Dey’s tactical insights and cool headedness will be crucial. The Malaysian skipper, Elsa Hunter, is another exciting prospect to watch out for. She scored an unbeaten half-century 79* (86 balls), top-scored with the bat for her side in the 1st game of the series. Malaysia’s emerging cricket icon, Hunter’s batting prowess, will be key as Malaysia look to bounce back.
Assam’s young brigade, with a blend of promising young batters and adaptable all-rounders, the squad will be eager to make an international impression.
Beyond runs and wickets, this series represents an important cultural and sporting exchange, offering Assam’s players a platform to test their skills, adapt to foreign conditions, and absorb the pressures of international cricket. For Malaysia, the matches will serve as vital preparation as they look to build momentum after their Asia Qualifier campaign.
With both teams eager to learn, grow, and compete, the series promises entertaining cricket and invaluable development opportunities for all involved. Assam’s early win will give them confidence, but Malaysia, buoyed by their T20 experiences, will not back down easily. Expect competitive action, emerging talent, and the continued rise of women’s cricket in new corners of the cricketing world.
Cricket enthusiasts in Assam, Malaysia, and beyond will be watching with keen interest as this exciting series unfolds in Kuala Lumpur.
