Indian team’s confidence is sky-high after their resounding 155-run victory over West Indies in the ongoing Women’s World Cup at Hamilton last Saturday (March 12).
The Mithali-Raj led side is due to take on defending champions England in their next clash in Mount Maunganui on Wednesday (March 16).
Ahead of the league match, India vice-captain Harmanpreet Kaur said the team is looking to replicate the same performance against the struggling England side.
“I think for us, (it is) very important that the way we performed in the last game we continue that, rather than thinking about what is (are) your negatives and what is (are) your positive points,” Kaur said at the pre-match media conference.
Harmanpreet and opener Smriti Mandhana were the stars in India’s huge win over West Indies. The duo had slammed centuries and were involved in a 184-run stand for the fourth wicket.
"We got a great partnership while batting and also the way we bowled in partnerships we want to continue that against England and in the upcoming matches. I think those are the areas which we look to continue.
“And apart from that, sometimes we are losing back-to-back wickets if we can work on that. Otherwise, the way we want (things to be) we are getting them,” she added.
Harmanpreet has returned to form in the showpiece tournament following a prolonged lean patch. She scored 71 against New Zealand and followed it with 107-ball 109 against West Indies.
“Big tournaments are always very important and where your role is more important. You need to take more responsibility and perform for your team.
“I always want to give my best for my team but sometimes things don't go your way but I'll make sure whenever we play the World Cup, I will be there always for my team and that is the reason,” she said when asked about her fantastic record in World Cup.
According to Kaur, the bilateral series in New Zealand just before the marquee event helped the Indian team immensely.
“The greatest thing was before the World Cup we got (to play) five ODIs against the New Zealand and one T20 (and) because of that we got that momentum and getting used to these conditions and that is the reason which is helping us now to perform well,” she concluded.
(With PTI inputs)
