New Delhi, March 25 (NationPress) India's women's cricket captain, Harmanpreet Kaur, revealed that the squad's victory in last year's home Women's ODI World Cup has instilled a sense of confidence to excel at any global stage. She stated that the team is currently in rigorous preparations for the forthcoming Women's T20 World Cup, scheduled from June 12 to July 5 in England.

Before this major tournament, Harmanpreet will lead the Indian team in a five-match T20I series against South Africa from April 17 to 27, followed by a three-match series against England. Although India has not yet secured a Women's T20 World Cup title, Harmanpreet and her teammates are determined to chase the championship, buoyed by the experience of winning the ODI World Cup on home soil.

“We consistently strive to perform at our best during ICC World Cups. The confidence gained from our last World Cup victory is invaluable. Winning a home World Cup provides a foundation to compete and succeed globally. The pressure during the home World Cup was immense, something we all experienced from September to November last year,” said Harmanpreet.

“The upcoming World Cup is an event we are all diligently preparing for. After competing in India last year, we are heading to South Africa before the World Cup in England. This is the moment for us to intensify our preparations. We are eagerly anticipating the World Cup and hope to perform exceptionally well there,” she added during her address to reporters at the Omaxe State Stadium in Dwarka, New Delhi, where a stand is being dedicated to her.

This newly named stand will exclusively accommodate female fans and their families, part of a 30,000-seat sports complex built with a budget of Rs 2,500 crore, spanning 50 acres in Dwarka Sector 19B, developed in collaboration with the Delhi Development Authority (DDA). This honor makes Harmanpreet the only female cricketer in India to have two stadium stands named in her honor.

“The creation of a stadium is significant, but dedicating a stand for females truly resonates with me. For many girls, playing cricket is a dream. For those unable to play but eager to watch, providing them with a safe environment to enjoy sports, not just cricket but also football, is essential. This is a heartfelt moment for me, as I have always dreamed of playing cricket,” expressed an emotionally moved Harmanpreet.

“I never imagined a stand would carry my name. This is a deeply emotional occasion for me, and I extend my gratitude for this recognition. Such moments are rare in a cricketer's life, and I will cherish this forever. Although I have a few more years of playing ahead, these experiences will remain with me always,” she continued.

Addressing the impact of the Women's Premier League (WPL) on the elevation of women's cricket in India, Harmanpreet remarked, “I have often been asked about this. The IPL has significantly advanced men's cricket, leading to consecutive T20 World Cup victories. Thus, it plays a crucial role in team development.

“Similarly, WPL has greatly benefitted women's cricket. Our team's attitude has shifted remarkably. We clinched the ICC title after just three editions of WPL. I believe WPL will continue to play a pivotal role in the future. I hope WPL remains supportive, allowing us to keep winning ICC titles,” she noted.

When asked about the increased recognition and visibility for herself and her team post-India's ODI World Cup victory, Harmanpreet explained, “In any field, you must achieve something remarkable to gain recognition.

“Otherwise, it feels as though all your hard work is in vain. Our efforts were not limited to this year; we have consistently worked hard over the years.

“Not just our team, but all the women cricketers before us have persevered even when financing their own journeys. Thus, securing a title was essential. The response we have received from Indian fans, media, and everyone else post-victory is monumental for us.”

On this occasion, Mohit Goel, MD of Omaxe, stated, “Harmanpreet's journey exemplifies discipline, resilience, and leadership. Naming a stand after her at The Omaxe State is our tribute to her journey and a nod to the progress of women’s sports in India.

“We partnered with her prior to her World Cup win because we believed in her values. At her suggestion, we are introducing the Pink Stand for women, with a capacity exceeding 1500, to foster inclusivity in stadiums. Her insights on the necessary facilities, which remain scarce in Indian stadiums, are invaluable.”

“To realize this vision, we have collaborated with Bentel and other global experts to ensure the design of the stadium, hotel, and commercial spaces meet international standards. In fact, the stadium has been designed with India’s ambition to host prestigious international sporting events such as the Olympics, FIFA tournaments, Paralympics, and Commonwealth Games in mind.