Harmanpreet Kaur Faces 'Healthy Headache' as India Women’s Cricket Team Gears Up for England ODIs
Southampton, July 14 - For the first time in years, India Women’s cricket captain Harmanpreet Kaur is facing a welcome challenge—choosing from a pool of in-form players ahead of the ODI series against England. The captain described the selection conundrum as a “healthy headache,” signalling a new era of depth, competition, and role clarity in the Indian women's setup.
Depth and Form Present a Rare Challenge
In her pre-match press conference in Southampton, Harmanpreet acknowledged the significant growth in team options. “After a long time, we’re having a healthy headache of having to pick the best team,” she said. “Earlier, we didn’t have so many options. Credit to Shafali Verma, Pratika Rawal, and Harleen Deol for consistently stepping up whenever given opportunities.”
Smriti Mandhana remains a certain pick at the top of the order, but competition is heating up for the second opener's spot. Pratika Rawal, with an average of 63 in 11 innings, is leading the race. However, Shafali Verma's explosive form in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) and international matches keeps her firmly in contention.
If Shafali returns to the XI, Pratika may find herself competing with Harleen Deol for the No. 3 batting position.
Clarity and Communication: The New Mantra
The Indian leadership group, led by head coach Amol Muzumdar and Harmanpreet herself, has prioritized role clarity and communication. “As a captain, I make sure every player knows their role before stepping onto the ground. Compared to before, we now have far more clarity. That credit goes to both players and support staff,” Harmanpreet said.
Spin Stocks Strengthened by Emerging Stars
One of the biggest positives heading into the ODIs is the performance of the team’s spinners. N. Shree Charani, a 20-year-old left-arm spinner, was named Player of the Series in the recent T20Is after taking 10 wickets. “In the WPL, she was impressive. From there, we believed she had potential,” Harmanpreet stated.
She also praised Radha Yadav, who made a notable comeback after being sidelined. “Radha is crucial for us. When she was going through a lean phase, it was a concern. But she worked hard during the break and is now performing well. Even in ODIs, she’ll be valuable.”
New All-Rounder Option in Amanjot Kaur
In the absence of all-rounders Pooja Vastrakar and pace spearhead Renuka Singh, Amanjot Kaur has emerged as a dependable option. “She had a tough start in WPL 2023, but this year, she’s been phenomenal in filling Pooja’s shoes,” the captain noted. “She’s contributing in all departments—batting, bowling, and fielding.”
New-Age ODI Strategy
The Indian team has been adopting a more aggressive approach in ODIs, aiming for scores above 300. Harmanpreet explained, “That target gives our bowlers more breathing room. In the T20I series, we played with four spinners, which also contributed to our success.”
With Pratika Rawal providing a sixth bowling option and the entire squad showcasing sharp fielding, India appears well-equipped to carry momentum into the three-match ODI series.
“Our fielding has been outstanding,” Harmanpreet said. “We’re looking to continue that energy and momentum into the ODI series.”
Final Thoughts – By The Trending People
The Indian women’s cricket team stands at a turning point. What was once a side struggling with lack of depth is now flourishing with options. The rise of new talent, backed by experienced hands and strong leadership, promises an exciting ODI series against England.
For Harmanpreet Kaur, the challenge isn’t who to field—it’s who to leave out.