Former India captain Mithali Raj believes Harmanpreet Kaur’s side have made a promising start to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup but insists there are still key areas that need improvement if they are to challenge for the title. Speaking during a JioStar Media Day, Raj highlighted the importance of sharpening the bowling unit ahead of crucial fixtures against South Africa, Bangladesh and Australia.
Assessing India’s performances so far, Raj pointed to the lack of breakthroughs with the new ball as a concern. “I would pick the first six overs of our bowling innings as something I would not call it as a strength,” she said, as per IANS, adding that India need early wickets to put opposition batting line-ups under pressure. While acknowledging the absence
of Kashvee Gautam and Amanjot Kaur, Raj stressed that the current resources should still be capable of delivering stronger starts.
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She praised India’s experienced batters, particularly Smriti Mandhana, for guiding the team through difficult situations. “Smriti is doing great,” Raj said, commending the opener’s composure and awareness in pressure situations. However, she expressed greater concern about the bowling attack, questioning whether there is enough clarity regarding roles and responsibilities. “Who are our strike bowlers? Who are the ones who are going to get us wickets?” she asked.
Raj also discussed the significance of dismissing South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt early. Comparing Wolvaardt’s influence to Mandhana’s role for India, she noted that removing the opener quickly could disrupt South Africa’s batting plans and create pressure on the middle order.
Favourites To Win?
Looking ahead to the semi-final race, Raj backed Australia and India as favourites from their group, while suggesting England and possibly West Indies could emerge from the other pool. Against Australia, she identified Phoebe Litchfield as a key wicket and said handling pressure moments would be vital.
On team selection, Raj supported continuing with Yastika Bhatia rather than rotating wicketkeepers again. She also highlighted the threat posed by South Africa’s experienced pace duo. “Shabnim Ismail and Marizanne Kapp are going to be the key,” Raj said, describing Sunday’s clash as a battle between two evenly matched and experienced sides.
(With inputs from Agencies)
