Dubai: As India prepares to co-host the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup, skipper Harmanpreet Kaur is filled with optimism, aiming to guide her team past the final hurdle. Having experienced defeats in the finals of the Asia Cup 2024, Commonwealth Games 2022, and the 2020 T20 World Cup, the Indian team has yet to secure a major title under her leadership. However, Kaur believes this season offers a pivotal opportunity to make history.
In anticipation of the ODI World Cup, which is set to commence on September 30, Harmanpreet underscored the significance of mindset over previous setbacks. She indicated that the players have gained valuable insights from their past errors and are focused on addressing them effectively this time.
“We have been through these situations [losing the final] many times,” Harmanpreet stated during the captains’ meet in Bengaluru. “We have been playing good cricket, and it’s only about going with confidence and meeting the expectations of our team. We are focused on enjoying this moment instead of dwelling on past events. We have learned from our mistakes, and hopefully this time, we will find ourselves on the other side.”
This tournament represents Harmanpreet’s fifth ODI World Cup, but notably, it will be her first as captain. Leading the team in a home setting adds to the significance of this occasion. She emphasized the importance of minimizing pressure despite the tournament being hosted at home.
“Leading your country is always special, but doing so in an ODI World Cup elevates that experience,” she remarked. “As this World Cup is happening in India after 12 years, it will be an incredible experience for all of us. It’s essential to avoid excess pressure.”
