Queensland seek successive titles as Australian Female Under-19 Championships begin in Hobart today

Queensland today begins its quest for back-to-back under-19 titles as the Australian Female Under-19 Championships commence in Hobart this morning (7 January).

The sunshine state claimed its first Betty Wilson Shield last year, ending New South Wales' six-year dominance at the under-19 level.

The eight-day tournament (7-14 January) - staged in Hobart for the first time - features all state and territory sides (excluding the Northern Territory) in a seven-round competition, with each team playing each other once in a 50-over per side match.

With no finals series in the championships, the state or territory leading the points table at the conclusion of the tournament will claim the Australian Female Under-19 title.

In line with Cricket Australia's Spirit of Cricket initiative, a `Spirit of Cricket' award will be handed out to the team that best personifies the true spirit, traditions and values associated with cricket. It is the first time the award has been presented at the under-19 championships.

Women's youth cricket continues later this month, with the Australian Female Under-17 Championships to be held in Geelong, Victoria, from 18-23 January.