India skipper Harmanpreet Kaur has expressed full confidence in young opener Shafali Verma, who was recently dropped from the ODI squad for the series against Australia. Harmanpreet remains optimistic about Shafali regaining her form and delivering strong performances ahead of next year’s Women’s World Cup, which will be hosted by India. Along with Shafali’s absence, India will also be without wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia, who sustained a wrist injury during the Women’s Big Bash League.Harmanpreet Kaur Confident Shafali Verma Will Regain Form Ahead of Home ODI World Cup Despite Being Dropped.
“She (Shafali) is an important player for us and has done exceptionally well for the country. We are eager to see her get back into her zone and perform well for the team,” Harmanpreet stated on the eve of the first ODI against Australia. In Bhatia’s absence, young Uma Chetri has been brought into the squad, while Richa Ghosh, Harleen Deol, Titas Sadhu, and Minnu Mani make their return.
Harmanpreet emphasized the importance of the series, stating that every game presents an opportunity to refine the team ahead of the World Cup. “Our goal is always to win, and this series is no exception. We aim to maintain the momentum we’ve built in the ODI format and will try different combinations to identify players who can perform well under home conditions during the World Cup,” she explained.
India enters the series on the back of a 2-1 ODI victory against New Zealand at home. However, they face a daunting task against Australia, a team that has consistently excelled in all conditions. India’s record in ODIs Down Under is less than stellar, with only four wins in 16 matches, including a 1-2 series loss in their last outing in 2021.Harmanpreet Kaur Confident Shafali Verma Will Regain Form Ahead of Home ODI World Cup Despite Being Dropped.
Reflecting on the upcoming challenge, Harmanpreet said, “We performed well against New Zealand at home, but conditions here are different. We are working hard to adapt quickly. Playing against a strong team like Australia is a great platform for us to showcase our skills and prepare for the World Cup.”Harmanpreet Kaur Confident Shafali Verma Will Regain Form Ahead of Home ODI World Cup Despite Being Dropped.
The team has had two days of training to settle into Australian conditions. “Everyone is feeling good and in great shape. We enjoy playing ODIs more than any other format, and with the World Cup in India on the horizon, this series is an excellent opportunity to fine-tune our preparation,” she concluded.
The three-match series promises to be a crucial test for the Harmanpreet-led side as they aim to build a formidable team for the World Cup on home soil.
