Former Indian cricket captain Mithali Raj believes that the Indian women’s team will have an upper hand in the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, thanks to the familiar conditions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). With the tournament set to take place across two key venues—Sharjah Cricket Stadium and Dubai International Stadium—Raj emphasised that the Indian team could use their experience in similar subcontinental climates to their advantage.
Speaking about the team’s chances, Mithali Raj expressed optimism. “Our team has the advantage because the UAE conditions are similar to what we’re used to,” she noted. However, she was quick to point out that every team will come well-prepared for the World Cup, making it a highly competitive tournament.
Mithali Raj optimism amidst strong competition
Mithali Raj, a veteran in women’s cricket and now a broadcaster, acknowledged that while India has yet to win a senior ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, the team has made significant strides, including winning the Under-19 World Cup. However, she cautioned against underestimating the competition. “The World Cup means every team comes well prepared,” Raj added, highlighting that India’s loss in the Asia Cup earlier this year serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of the sport.
“I think I will definitely want the team to do well because, like everybody else, when we get into the World Cup, we want our team to win. The Indian women’s team, so far, hasn’t won, other than the Under-19 World Cup. The UAE is, again, in very similar conditions, so we can say that, you know, our team has the advantage. But again, the World Cup means every team comes well prepared. As a broadcaster, I think I’ve just done the first stint for women’s cricket in the Asia Cup, and India lost the Asia Cup. I don’t know whether that’s lucky or not in that way!”
ICC Women’s T20 World Cup: Venues
The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 will see 10 teams battling it out across 23 matches, split between two iconic UAE venues—Sharjah Cricket Stadium and Dubai International Stadium. These venues have a rich history in international cricket, having hosted significant matches for both men’s and women’s teams.
The tournament kicks off on 3 October 2024 at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, with Bangladesh taking on Scotland and Pakistan facing Sri Lanka in a thrilling double-header. The Dubai International Stadium will host its first match the following day, and the final will also take place there on 20 October.
Sharjah Cricket Stadium: Favourite Among Fans
Sharjah Cricket Stadium, which has hosted over 200 One-Day Internationals, is known for its vibrant atmosphere, largely due to the vast expat communities supporting South Asian teams. The stadium will play host to 11 matches during the Women’s T20 World Cup, including the second semi-final on 18 October. Notable clashes at Sharjah include India’s high-stakes encounter with Australia and England’s meeting with South Africa.
Dubai International Stadium: Home of Final
Dubai International Stadium, with its 25,000 seating capacity, is another important venue for the tournament. It will host 12 matches, including the all-important final on 20 October. India’s group-stage clash with New Zealand will be among the must-watch matches here, while a highly anticipated face-off between India and Pakistan will be held in the group stage at this stadium.
Excitement builds ahead of T20 World Cup
As excitement builds for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, Mithali Raj’s words reflect the high expectations placed on the Indian team. With the advantage of playing in familiar UAE conditions, all eyes will be on how India navigates their way through the tournament, aiming for their first senior T20 World Cup title.
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