Final test before World Cup as India face Aussies

Facing the seven-time world champions ahead of the ICC Women’s World Cup will be like writing pre-board exams before appearing for the finals, as India take on Australia in a three-match ODI series starting September 14 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh PCA International Stadium.

“It will be an important series considering the upcoming World Cup. Ideally, it’s valuable for both sides, but facing a team like Australia before the main event will surely give us great takeaways,” said Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, who is set to play her 150th ODI for India.

Harmanpreet’s observation holds true, as Australia are among the toughest competitors and enter the World Cup as defending champions. “For the last two years, the Indian team has been in a great setup. Other teams might have settled earlier, but our results and approach in every match or tournament have been highly satisfactory. I say it with confidence—we will carry the same form into this series and the months ahead during the World Cup,” added the captain.

Harmanpreet’s observation holds true, as Australia are among the toughest competitors and enter the World Cup as defending champions. “For the last two years, the Indian team has been in a great setup. Other teams might have settled earlier, but our results and approach in every match or tournament have been highly satisfactory. I say it with confidence—we will carry the same form into this series and the months ahead during the World Cup,” added the captain.

As she mentioned about getting the desired results in recent times, the Indian team’s performance during the last England Tour surely make Harmanpreet’s claims sturdy. The side had an impressive run by winning series against England (3-2 in T20Is and 2-1 in ODIs), and previously sweeping Ireland 3-0 and winning a tri-series in Sri Lanka. However, this particular series will also serve as a platform for the Indian eves to avenge the 0-3 whitewash against Australia last year. While Harmanpreet showed her confidence in each member of the team, she also appreciated Shafali Verma—the power packed opener who has been dropped for this series and from the World Cup squad as well. “Every player is important for the side, and plays an important role. Pratika Rawal (who replaced Shafali) is in good form, and doing well. Shafali, on other hand, was also contributing excellently and helped the side win. It’s not about who is picked or not, it’s about how they can contribute,” she added. The skipper also made a mention of pacer Renuka Singh-- who is making a comeback to international cricket after nearly nine months following a stress fracture. “It’s a good sign, especially as we play at home,” she added. The spin department is well-stocked with Sneh Rana, who impressed during the Sri Lanka tri-series, young Shree Charani, as well as the seasoned duo of Deepti Sharma and Radha Yadav.

The series is equally significant for Australia as they finalise World Cup preparations and adapt to Indian conditions. “We have an experienced unit that knows how to adjust, but this series is important since we will be staying in India before the World Cup,” said Australian skipper Alyssa Healy, herself making a comeback after injuries.

Keeper-batter Beth Mooney, who has been a standout performer against India in recent ODIs, once again poses a big threat in Australia’s top order. On the bowling front, Megan Schutt, the experienced pacer, will be Australia’s go-to wicket-taking option. “We are not taking the Indian side lightly, yes there are some areas of concern but the team is ready to face it. Our uncapped players are trying really hard, and some of them will be making their debuts in this series,” added the skipper.