Can the Indian Women’s Team Overcome Challenges in the 2025 ODI World Cup?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- India’s women's team is showing enhanced confidence and clarity.
- Significant contributions are coming from multiple players.
- The team aims to secure its first 50-over World Cup title.
- Preparation and role clarity are pivotal for success.
- The upcoming matches will be crucial for elevating women's cricket in India.
New Delhi, Sep 24 (NationPress) Former Indian wicketkeeper Sushma Verma asserts that the team led by Harmanpreet Kaur has moved past its previous weaknesses and now possesses a formidable batting lineup that will not easily be intimidated by other competitors in the upcoming 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup.
While the Indian men’s team has claimed two titles at the ICC ODI World Cup, the women’s squad is still in pursuit of its first 50-over trophy, having reached the final in 2005 and 2017.
“Throughout the last two years of the ODI cycle, the Indian women’s cricket team has shown remarkable performance, particularly in the batting department. In the past, there were concerns about our reliance on Harman and Smriti, but now the team displays enhanced clarity,” she explained.
“With contributions from players like Pratika and Richa, alongside consistent performances from Jemimah, and the experienced duo of Smriti and Harman, it sends a clear message to rivals: you cannot easily intimidate this team by scoring 250 runs,” Sushma stated during an interview on JioHotstar.
Given their current momentum, India is viewed as a top contender for the 2025 title, and clinching the World Cup at home would greatly enhance the status of women’s cricket within the nation. The Indian team is set to launch their World Cup journey against co-hosts Sri Lanka on September 30 in Guwahati.
India’s off-spin bowling all-rounder Sneh Rana highlighted the importance of defined roles and preparation in the squad’s recent achievements. “As a bowling all-rounder, I have clarity on my batting position and the overs I will bowl,” she said.
“Consistent preparation has been key in all series and matches. Maintaining clarity during camps has helped everyone. Sticking to one’s strengths ensures success, while learning and adapting are also essential,” she added.