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As the cricketing world gears up for the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, set to be hosted in India, former Indian cricketer and women’s team coach WV Raman has proposed a groundbreaking idea to elevate the Indian team’s chances of clinching their first senior world title. Raman has suggested the appointment of Australian cricket legend as the mentor for the Indian women’s team, citing her unparalleled experience and leadership qualities as the perfect recipe for success on the grandest stage.
WV Raman makes case for an Australian legend
Meg Lanning, often referred to as the “Queen of Women’s Cricket,” is one of the most decorated players in the history of the sport. With seven World Cup titles (two ODI and five T20I) and a Commonwealth Games gold medal to her name, Lanning’s resume speaks volumes about her ability to perform under pressure and lead teams to glory. Her recent stint in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) has given her a closer look at Indian cricket, making her an ideal candidate to guide the Indian team. Raman believes that Lanning’s experience and tactical acumen could be the missing piece in India’s quest for a world title.
will not be a bad idea for @BCCI to rope in #MegLanning as the mentor of @BCCIWomen for the ICC WC scheduled later this year. Playing the #WPL has given her the opportunity to gain first hand knowledge about the Indian conditions and Indian cricket. Just a thought. #WPL2025
— WV Raman (@wvraman) February 15, 2025
Glorious career: A legacy of excellence
At just 32 years old, Lanning retired from international cricket in 2023 after a stellar 241-match career. Her statistics are a testament to her dominance across formats. In ODIs, she amassed 4,602 runs at an astonishing average of 53.51, including 15 centuries and 21 half-centuries. In T20Is, she scored 3,405 runs at an average of 36.61, with two centuries and 15 fifties. Lanning’s leadership was equally impressive, as she captained Australia in 182 matches, leading them to five ICC trophies.
Her ability to perform consistently in high-pressure situations and her strategic brilliance as a captain make her a role model for aspiring cricketers. Raman’s suggestion to bring her on board as a mentor is not just about leveraging her cricketing knowledge but also about instilling a winning mentality in the Indian team.
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India’s World Cup woes: A history of near-misses
The Indian women’s cricket team has often been labeled as underachievers in ICC events. Despite reaching the finals of the 2017 ODI World Cup and the 2020 T20 World Cup, the team has faltered at the final hurdle. Issues like pressure handling, inconsistent fielding, and failure to execute basic skills have plagued the team in crucial moments.
Raman’s proposal comes at a time when the Indian team is in dire need of a fresh perspective. With the 2025 World Cup being held at home, the pressure to perform will be immense. Lanning’s experience in leading Australia to multiple World Cup victories could provide the Indian team with the mental fortitude and strategic edge they need to overcome their past disappointments.
A new era for Indian Women’s cricket?
The appointment of Lanning as a mentor could mark the beginning of a new era for Indian women’s cricket. Her presence in the dressing room could inspire the players to raise their game and approach the tournament with a champion’s mindset. Moreover, her familiarity with Indian conditions, thanks to her WPL experience, could prove invaluable in devising game plans tailored to the home advantage.
While the BCCI is yet to respond to Raman’s suggestion, the idea has already sparked discussions among fans and experts. If the governing body decides to act on this recommendation, it could be a game-changing move for Indian women’s cricket.
Also READ: Exclusive: Who should captain India after Harmanpreet Kaur? Former India chief selector Hemlata Kala shares her candid views on women’s cricket
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
