Harmanpreet Kaur-led team India is all set for the challenge and will kick off their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 campaign against New Zealand in Dubai this Friday.
The Women in Blue are aiming for a strong start in Group A, often referred to as the “group of death” in the tournament. Both India and New Zealand are yet to claim a T20 World Cup title but have shared similar journeys in the tournament’s history. India will look to field their strongest side for this important clash against New Zealand.
Opening batters
There aren’t many spots up for grabs in the Indian batting order. It’s expected that Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana will continue opening the innings for India, as they have often provided a stable foundation in recent years.
Middle order batters
With Yastika Bhatia unfit, Harmanpreet Kaur will likely take on the role of anchor in the middle order at number 3. She also played in this position during the warm-up matches. Jemimah Rodrigues is expected to slot in at number 4, with Richa Ghosh at number 5. Jemimah can hold the innings together if early wickets fall and is known to shine in crucial moments.
All-rounders
A powerful hitter and a handy medium-pacer, Pooja Vastrakar adds balance to the team. She is expected to come in at number 6, while India’s most reliable all-rounder, Deepti Sharma, is likely to bat at number 7.
Bowlers
The biggest dilemma lies between Asha Sobhana and Shreyanka Patil. Both are excellent players, with Asha having more domestic experience, while Shreyanka has been crucial for India in recent games. One of them is expected to be picked.
Arundhati Reddy, an experienced seamer, will be key in providing early breakthroughs and is equally important in the death overs. Radha Yadav’s left-arm spin adds variety to the bowling attack and will be vital in the middle overs. Renuka Singh, who will lead the pace attack, will be tasked with taking early wickets during the powerplay.
India predicted XI for IND-W vs NZ-W
Shafali Verma, Smriti Mandhana, Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh (WK), Pooja Vastrakar, Deepti Sharma, Arundhati Reddy, Radha Yadav, Asha Sobhana/Shreyanka Patil, and Renuka Singh.
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