India women’s cricket captain Harmanpreet Kaur is brimming with confidence as the team prepares to chase their first-ever ODI World Cup title, with the ICC showpiece set to begin on Tuesday, September 30.
Speaking ahead of India’s tournament-opener against Sri Lanka, Harmanpreet emphasised that the team’s optimism is rooted in more than just the advantage of playing at home. The skipper pointed to the team’s recent successes and consistent performances as reasons to believe they can make history.
“We have a genuine chance. I’m not saying this just because we are playing at home,” Harmanpreet said. “The amount of cricket we have played and the results we have achieved in the recent past show we have depth in our game, whether it’s in batting or bowling. We have improved in a lot of areas. So the chances are there, but tomorrow is our first game, so the main focus is on starting well and setting the tone. That is something we are looking forward to.”
The 36-year-old added that the team is keeping a positive mindset as they aim to give their best on the field.
“It is a very exciting moment for us, and I just want all of us to stay in a very positive frame of mind where we can give our best,” she said.
A Childhood Dream Comes True
While Harmanpreet has been a stalwart of the international circuit for years, this World Cup marks her first ODI campaign as captain — a dream she has long cherished.
“I have been leading for so many years, especially in T20 World Cups. This is my first opportunity to lead in ODIs. I do have experience of how things work in ICC events, but it was one of my dreams to lead my team in an ODI World Cup. So my team will give our best to win this World Cup,” she said.
ODI Cricket in Focus
The Women in Blue have been preparing extensively for the 50-over format, and their recent performances indicate that they are ready to compete at the highest level. The batting unit has shown remarkable consistency, regularly putting up 300+ totals, while clarity in players’ roles has strengthened the team’s overall strategy.
“We played more ODI cricket after the last T20 World Cup and have won more matches. Many times, we have scored more than 300 runs. There are many positives, and this is going to give us a lot of confidence going into the World Cup,” Harmanpreet said.
“There is more clarity in both batting and bowling. Each player knows their role and when they need to perform. We have created so many magic moments for women’s cricket, and that has definitely given us confidence to do well in ODI cricket,” she added.
Excitement of a Home World Cup
Despite the World Cup returning to India after 12 years, Harmanpreet insisted there is no added pressure, highlighting the excitement surrounding the tournament and the strong support from fans.
“This World Cup is going to happen after 12 years, but there is no pressure at all. We have been preparing well, ticking all the boxes in practice games. We are very excited to play the World Cup at home. Nothing more we can ask for as cricketers,” she said.
The skipper also expects packed stadiums and enthusiastic crowds to cheer the team throughout the tournament.
“In the past 3-4 years, we have seen packed stadiums whenever we played at home. Not only in India, but even when playing abroad, fans have always supported us. Home conditions and a home World Cup are very special, and I am sure the crowd is going to come and support us throughout this tournament. We will try to create special memories for both sides,” Harmanpreet signed off.
With a confident captain at the helm and a team brimming with talent and experience, India will look to finally end their World Cup jinx and make history on home soil.
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