India, Jan. 31 -- Reigning champions India will defend their ICC U-19 Women's T20 World Cup title after beating England in the semi-finals by nine wickets.

Although the final margin of victory was comprehensive, this was the hardest they have been pushed with England flying out of the blocks after electing to bat.

Davina Perrin smashed 45 runs before India's slow bowlers pulled things back and restricted England to 113 for eight.

Parunika Sisodia chipped in with two wickets in an over and took three for 21 in all, with Vaishnavi Sharma taking three wickets of her own in just four balls.

England's total was not enough, with Gongadi Trisha (35) and G Kamalini (56 not out), marshalling the comfortable chase.

Having won a rematch of the ...