The Indian women’s cricket team is gearing up for a critical three-match ODI series against England, a vital step in their preparations for the upcoming World Cup.
A Welcome Selection Dilemma
Captain Harmanpreet Kaur expressed her delight at the “good headache” of having multiple players in excellent form. This marks a significant change from the past, as the team now boasts a strong pool of talent, giving selectors plenty of options.
With the World Cup just over two months away, and only one more series against Australia after this, the England ODIs are the last major chance for India to finalize their team combinations.
The Battle for Opening Slot
A key focus will be on the opening partnership. Pratika Rawal is set to return to the XI after missing the T20I series, aiming to re-establish her formidable partnership with Smriti Mandhana.
Together, Rawal and Mandhana have amassed 968 runs at an impressive average of 88 in just 11 matches, including four century stands. This record already places them among India’s top ODI opening pairs.
However, Shafali Verma’s strong performance in the T20I series means she’s still in contention for a World Cup spot. This healthy competition at the top order offers the team valuable depth.
Spinners Shine and Roles Are Clear
Harmanpreet also lauded her left-arm spinners, rookie Sree Charani and veteran Radha Yadav. Charani has rapidly risen through the ranks, while Radha’s strong bowling and fielding after returning from injury have been impressive.
The captain highlighted the increased clarity within the squad. Players understand their roles and positions, which she believes is a stark improvement from previous times. This self-assurance comes from the consistent performances of players like Pratika, Shafali, and Harleen Deol.
Pratika Rawal’s English Challenge
For Pratika Rawal, this series presents her first international challenge outside the subcontinent. To prepare, she arrived in England over a week early to acclimatize to the conditions.
She observed that the ball skids more and the bounce is higher compared to Indian wickets. Rawal has been working on her game, practicing on astro turf wickets back home, and discussing strategies with teammates and coaching staff to counter English pacers.
World Cup Auditions Begin Now
The team is expected to largely retain the core XI from their recent Tri-Series win in Sri Lanka. Harmanpreet hinted at continuing with a four-pronged spin attack, which proved successful in the T20Is.
The competition for the second seamer spot, alongside Amanjot Kaur, is likely between Arundhati Reddy and Kranti Goud. Every player making the cut for these three ODIs will be effectively auditioning for their place in the World Cup squad.
This adds significant weight to what promises to be a fiercely contested series between two of the world’s top cricket teams.
- The England ODI series is India’s penultimate preparation for the upcoming World Cup.
- Captain Harmanpreet Kaur is pleased with the selection options due to many players being in form.
- Pratika Rawal’s return adds competition to the opening slot with Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma.
- India is likely to continue with a strong spin attack, featuring Sree Charani and Radha Yadav.
- Players’ performances in this series will heavily influence World Cup squad selections.
The series will be a true test of depth and strategy as India seeks to fine-tune their lineup for the biggest stage.
