India head coach Amol Muzumdar on Sunday acknowledged that seam-bowling all-rounder Amanjot Kaur's absence from the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup represents a significant loss, but expressed optimism about uncapped fast bowler Nandni Sharma's emergence as the squad prepares for the tournament and the preceding England tour in July.

The Women's T20 World Cup squad was announced on Saturday, with selectors naming Nandni for the World Cup, three T20 Internationals against England, and a one-off Test at Lord's. The selection comes after Amanjot and Kashvee Gautam were ruled out due to injuries.

Amanjot's injury setback

Speaking on the sidelines of the IISM Degree Distribution Ceremony in Mumbai, Muzumdar said Amanjot's back injury will sideline her for at least four to five months. "She has been doing consistently well for India, we will miss her for sure but injuries are part of the game," Muzumdar told reporters. "She is difficult to replace but that is the way it goes." The coach expressed hope for her full recovery and return to international cricket.

Nandni's breakthrough credentials

Nandni made a significant impact in the Women's Premier League 2026, claiming 17 wickets for Delhi Capitals and becoming the first Indian woman pacer to take a hat-trick in the competition. She also featured in the Rising Stars Women's Asia Cup in Bangkok before suffering an injury.

Muzumdar praised her consistency across the WPL. "When she came on to the bigger stage of WPL in front of the world, the way she delivered, not just that five-wicket haul, every single game she was consistent," he said. "I know this team, it is going to welcome her, prepare her well and there is a lot of experience in this team and that is going to get the best out of her."

Pre-World Cup preparations

The head coach stressed the importance of the upcoming training camp at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, beginning May 10, before the team departs for England on May 22. "It has always been an integral part of this team. We believe in preparing well for every challenge that is in front of us," Muzumdar said. "I believe this team is on the right track and we would be hoping to have a very good camp before we set off for the World Cup."

England tour and World Cup prospects

Muzumdar highlighted India's recent success against England. "We had a very good series last year, we went on to win against England and that was the first time in history we had beaten England in England in a T20I series. The experience and confidence is there, all we need to do is travel well and do well there," he added.

Bharti Fulmali's role in flux

With Amanjot's lower-order hitting power unavailable, middle-order batter Bharti Fulmali may see increased playing time in the England series and World Cup. Muzumdar indicated the team is still finalizing her specific role. "She has been picked as a middle-order player and we still have to discuss and come up with a role for her and we will do it very soon," he concluded.