As the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 approaches, former Indian captain Anjum Chopra has shared her insights on India’s journey in women’s cricket and the challenges that lie ahead. Speaking exclusively to InsideSport, Chopra emphasised the importance of gradual progress in becoming a world-beating side and expressed her hopes for India’s performance in the upcoming tournament.
Steady climb for India Women’s Cricket Team
Anjum Chopra, a respected voice in women’s cricket, acknowledged India’s steady rise in recent years but cautioned against expecting immediate success. “India is a good team. We have done well over the past few years,” she said. “It’s been a steady climb, and overnight we can’t become world champions.”
Chopra pointed out that while India has made significant strides, the pain of losing finals has been a recurring theme. “Every defeat in the final pinches and hurts this Indian team because they know they have missed an opportunity. It’s been happening for a few years, and it pinches everyone that we haven’t crossed that final hurdle.”
Mental Strength and Power-Hitting Debate
Anjum Chopra believes that mental resilience is key to India overcoming these challenges. “The mental strength part is crucial at the highest level. It’s not just about power hitting,” she said, noting that while the ability to hit boundaries is important, winning often comes down to smart play and not losing wickets at crucial moments.
She praised players like Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh, and Pooja Vastrakar for their development, highlighting their ability to step up in key moments. “We have players with the potential to deliver when it really matters. Once they do, they will gain the confidence to dominate any bowling line-up.”
India’s Prospects in T20 World Cup 2024
India is set to compete in the ninth edition of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, which will be held in the UAE from October 3 to 20. The tournament will feature 10 teams, including defending champions Australia, England, South Africa, and India. Harmanpreet Kaur will lead the Indian side, hoping to secure their first-ever T20 World Cup title.
Chopra remains optimistic about India’s chances but stresses the need for patience and sustained effort. “It’s about crossing that hurdle once. Once our players deliver under pressure, they will realise their full potential.”
Global Stage for Women’s Cricket
The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup will see 23 matches played across Dubai and Sharjah, with top teams from around the globe competing for the coveted trophy. Australia, the reigning champions, will be the team to beat, but India’s progress in recent years gives fans hope for a historic triumph.
As the tournament unfolds, Anjum Chopra’s words serve as a reminder that building a world-class team takes time, perseverance, and mental toughness. India may not become world champions overnight, but they are steadily climbing toward that ultimate goal.
ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 teams and groups
- Group A: Australia, India, Pakistan, New Zealand, Sri Lanka
- Group B: South Africa, England, West Indies, Bangladesh, Scotland
