South Africa will host the inaugural Women’s U19 T20 World Cup in January 2023.

The tournament, involving 16 teams and 41 matches, will be the curtain-raiser for the 2023 Women’s T20 World Cup that will also be held in South Africa from 9-26 February,

“This is a watershed moment for the game of cricket, including for the growth of women’s cricket in the world and in South Africa,” said CSA board chairman Lawson Naidoo.

“After the tremendous success of the senior Women’s World Cup in New Zealand this year and the general excitement and interest around the game, it is also important to shine a light on the next generation to ensure the sustainability of the sport among aspiring girls and women everywhere.

“The latest displays from the Proteas have shown there is an abundance of talent within our country. The introduction of a developmental tournament like the U19 Women’s World Cup will provide our young players with critical exposure and competition against their peers with the world watching.”