Harmanpreet Kaur, India’s Women team captain, is satisfied to feel a “healthy headache” after so long, as it is difficult to choose between different players for same position.
For example, if India have to select opener players for upcoming ODI series against England, then Pratika Rawal could be the best option, as she holds an average of 63 in 11 innings, alongside Smriti Mandhana, the best opening partner. Shafali Verma shown her best performance in the WPL, domestic cricket and T20s, but she is still in contention.
Amol Muzumdar, Head coach, after India’s T20 series win last week, she confirmed that if Shafali re-joins, then Rawal and in-form Harleen Deol, could compete for the spot No. 3.
“After a long time, we’re having a healthy headache of having to pick the best team,” Harmanpreet said. “Earlier, we didn’t have so many options. Credit to Shafali and Pratika for the kind of performances they’ve put in.”
“Even Harleen, whenever she’s got the opportunity, she has shown she can also take the responsibility for the team. Clarity as a captain is something I give to all players so that when we go to the ground, we know our role and what kind of cricket we’re going to play.”
“Everyone knows their role. A lot of clarity is there compared to previously. It’s very important as a player and team to get that. When you’re playing for the country, you want clarity of roles. All credit goes to the team and staff for giving that clarity to the players.”
Not only batting, but there are also many options in the bowling department. During last two WPL, many spinners like Saika Ishaque, Shreyanka Patil, Tanuja Kanwer came forward with their consistent performance. N shree Charani, left-arm spinner, the best among them as she was awarded with Player of the Series in T20Is for getting maximum 10 wickets in the series.
“She’s a key player for us,” Harmanpreet said about the young the player, Charani. “In the WPL, where she played two-three [two] matches [for Delhi Capitals], she was impressive. From there only, we all [team management and selectors] had a chat that she can be a very good option for us.”
“We kept rotating players to see who fits in well, who could give most two the team. She has been outstanding for all of us. A player like her is very important. Along with her, even Radha [Yadav] has made a solid comeback. Hope their combination will keep helping the team like it is.”
Selecting a team that can easily play in challenging environments without depending on any single player.
“When we’re batting, we want to look for more than 300 and when we’re bowling, we have good bowling options so that there’s no extra pressure on any one bowler, because anyone can have an off day. We should have another option to be in the game. Pratika is our sixth bowling option; she’s been doing well in between. We’ll try to get more options in bowling. Our fielding was outstanding in T20I series, so we’ll try and carry that momentum.”
