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With the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 on the horizon, cricket enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly preparing for an exhilarating competition, starting on October 3 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The globe’s finest women cricketers are set to display their skills, intensifying the excitement. This inaugural edition of the tournament in the UAE is expected to deliver gripping encounters and a vibrant ambiance as teams battle for the coveted championship.
One of the exciting sides in the competition is Team India, who will kick off their campaign in the global event against New Zealand on October 4 at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Notably, India are placed in the challenging Group A. Apart from the White Ferns, they will battle against defending champions Australia, arch-rivals Pakistan, and unpredictable Sri Lanka. With tough competition ahead, the Indian team will need to be at their best to progress to the knockout stages and stake their claim for the coveted trophy.
The Indian women’s cricket team, led by the dynamic Harmanpreet Kaur, is brimming with talent and potential. Known for their fighting spirit and a mix of youth and experience, India will aim to bring home their first T20 World Cup title. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on key players who have the potential to turn the game in India’s favor.
High Expectations from Team India
India enter the Women’s T20 World Cup with high expectations, particularly after their consistent performances in global tournaments over the past few years. With a blend of explosive batters, experienced bowlers, and match-winning all-rounders, India have the squad depth to challenge the best teams in the world.
The team will rely heavily on the senior players, while emerging stars have the opportunity to make a name for themselves on the big stage. India’s recent performances have been promising, and fans are hopeful that the team can overcome the obstacles in their path and finally lift the prestigious title. While several players are anticipated to bring their best performance, let’s take a look at a few standout stars who will be closely watched by every fan.
Also READ: Complete details of the record prize money for Women’s T20 World Cup 2024
5 India players to watch out for in Women’s T20 World Cup 2024
Harmanpreet Kaur (Captain)
Harmanpreet, India’s captain and talisman, is known for her ability to single-handedly win matches with her explosive batting. She made headlines with her stunning 171* in the 2017 World Cup and has since been a vital cog in India’s batting lineup. Harmanpreet’s experience and leadership will be crucial in guiding India through tough matches.
- T20I Matches: 173 | Runs: 3426 | Average: 28.08 | 50s: 12 | 100s: 1
- Previous World Cup Performance: 118 runs in 5 matches (2023)
Smriti Mandhana (Vice-Captain)
One of the most consistent batters in world cricket, Mandhana will anchor India’s top order. Known for her elegant stroke play and ability to score quickly, Mandhana has been India’s go-to player in pressure situations. Her form at the top of the order will be key to India setting or chasing big totals.
- T20I Matches: 141 | Runs: 3493 | Average: 28.86 | 50s: 26 | 100s: 0
- Previous World Cup Performance: 151 runs in 4 matches (2023)
Shafali Verma
The teenage sensation, Shafali, has already made a name for herself with her aggressive style of play. Verma’s fearless approach at the top of the order can disrupt even the best bowling attacks. As a proven match-winner, her performances will be vital in providing India with quick starts.
- T20I Matches: 81 | Runs: 1948 | Average: 25.63 | 50s: 10 | Wickets: 10
- Previous World Cup Performance: 102 runs in 5 matches (2023)
Deepti Sharma
One of India’s most versatile all-rounders, Deepti is equally effective with both bat and ball. Her off-spin bowling in the middle overs often breaks partnerships, while her ability to play handy knocks lower down the order adds depth to India’s batting.
- T20I Matches: 117 | Runs: 1020 | Average: 23.72 | 50s: 2 | Wickets: 131 | BBM: 4/10
- Previous World Cup Performance: 6 wickets, 27 runs in 5 matches (2023)
Renuka Singh Thakur
Renuka Singh, India’s pace spearhead, has emerged as a key player in recent years with her ability to swing the ball both ways. Renowned for her early breakthroughs and sharp accuracy, she can dismantle top-order batters with ease. Renuka’s role in leading India’s pace attack will be crucial, especially on the fast tracks in the UAE.
- T20I Matches: 47 | Wickets: 50 | Economy: 6.40 | BBM: 5/15
- Previous World Cup Performance: 7 wickets in 5 matches (2023)
With these players in top form, India are well-equipped to take on the world’s best and make a deep run in the tournament. Fans will be watching closely as they step onto the field in the UAE, hoping for a historic World Cup triumph.
Also READ: Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur predicts the semifinalists of Women’s T20 World Cup 2024
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
