Harmanpreet Kaur is gearing up to lead India into the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup at home, starting on October 30 against Sri Lanka in Guwahati. For her, the showpiece event is more about soaking in the moment than being bogged down by expectations.
“I mean, it's unbelievable because, you know, when I started playing I never even thought I would get the opportunity to lead my country, it was only in a dream,” Harmanpreet said at the captains’ press meet organised by the ICC, as quoted by PTI.
She stated that the return of the tournament to India after more than a decade makes it even more memorable. “The ODI World Cup is happening after 12 years (at home), and I think it is going to be very amazing for all of us. It's all about enjoying this moment and not taking too much pressure,” she added.
India’s campaign also includes a match against arch-rivals Pakistan on October 5 in Colombo. However, Harmanpreet’s team is not focusing on a single game.
“We don't even discuss those things in the dressing room. We are only here to play cricket and our focus is only on cricket,” she remarked.
Australian captain Alyssa Healy, whose team has lifted the coveted trophy seven times, was quick to acknowledged India’s strength at home. “I think India in their home conditions are going to be really, really tough to beat,” Healy said.
New Zealand skipper Sophie Devine felt her side could quietly build on their recent experiences. “I think that has given confidence certainly to the younger players to have that self-belief and I guess the awareness that they can achieve it at this level,” Devine said.
England’s Nat Sciver-Brunt shared insights into her approach to handle pressure. “I've sort of learnt to compartmentalise different parts of the game. I think when you go out there as a batter, you're really trying to focus on the ball that's coming down,” Brunt said.
Sri Lanka skipper Chamari Athapaththu, who will take on India in the tournament opener, struck an underdog tone. “They are very good players. I know they are playing at home, so we will be going there as a bit of underdogs,” she said.
