Two matches yet to go, and India might have already been knocked out of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024. Their captain and most experienced player, Harmanpreet Kaur, could well miss their must-win clash against Sri Lanka on October 9. Having suffered a neck injury moments before India crossed the line against Pakistan, there is still uncertainty over her availability.
Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana’s comments on her fitness weren’t too positive either. “It’s too soon to say anything. The medical team is looking at it,” Smriti had said in the post-match interview.
Why India needs Harmanpreet Kaur
If she indeed doesn’t take the field, it’ll be a colossal loss. This is Harmanpreet’s 9th Women’s T20 World Cup; if you want someone with her level of experience by your side when the pressure is on. Despite going through an uneventful couple of years in WT20Is, she was the only batter to score over a run-a-ball against Pakistan.
She’s also got that propensity to show up when it matters the most. With each game virtually a knockout, you need someone like her on the team. She’s not just a captain but a leader. With her present, you know she can take control of the game during tense moments. Whether it be amidst a collapse or the opposition dominating the game, you can expect her to bank on that 15-year experience and calm others down.
Not to forget that Team India’s next two opponents are Sri Lanka and Australia. The two island nations can’t be taken lightly, especially Australia, who are 6-time champions. Sri Lanka had beaten India in the Women’s Asia Cup Final in July and could be confident about getting their first victory of the World Cup on October 9. Meanwhile, Australia has lost two T20Is (out of 19) against India since 2020. To reach the semifinals, India needs Harmanpreet Kaur at any cost.
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