Harmanpreet Kaur has expressed a strong sense of confidence in the Indian women's cricket team ahead of the 2024 Women's T20 World Cup. With twelve out of the fifteen squad members having participated in previous World Cups, the team is benefitting from considerable experience, which includes standout performances from newcomers Shreyanka Patil, Asha Sobhana, and S Sajana.
Kaur emphasized the team's familiarity with their roles, suggesting that this squad is the best India has fielded for a T20 World Cup.In preparation for the tournament, India engaged in T20I series against strong teams, including Australia and England. Although they faced losses in two series, they enjoyed dominance against Bangladesh and managed a tie against South Africa. Notably, a surprising defeat to Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup final raised questions about the team’s consistency.
Kaur indicated that the Asia Cup experience was crucial for identifying areas for improvement, and training camps over the following months focused on enhancing fitness and fielding, while also integrating skills development through competitive matchplay.The quest to handle pressure more effectively led to sessions with sports psychologist Mugdha Bavare, which Kaur highlighted as instrumental in helping the players address mental fatigue and communication as a team.
As India looks ahead, questions remain regarding their batting lineup, specifically the No. 3 position, a decision that will be strategically revealed closer to the tournament’s commencement.Although the venue for the World Cup has shifted to the UAE due to circumstances in Bangladesh, head coach Amol Muzumdar noted that his team's earlier experiences in Bangladesh could give them an edge.
The conditions in the UAE are expected to resemble those in India, though adjustments for humidity and pitch conditions will be necessary. Harmanpreet Kaur, approaching her ninth T20 World Cup, is determined to draw upon her extensive experience to navigate the pressures of the tournament, advocating for a focus on enjoyment and play without the weight of expectations.