Is Harmanpreet Set to Lead India in the Women's ODI World Cup?
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Synopsis
With the ICC Women's ODI World Cup just around the corner, India’s Harmanpreet Kaur is ready to make her debut as captain. While Shafali Verma misses out, the squad is packed with talent, looking to secure their first World Cup title after a nail-biting near-miss in 2017.
Key Takeaways
- Harmanpreet Kaur leads India in her first World Cup.
- Smriti Mandhana appointed as vice-captain.
- Notable absence of Shafali Verma from the squad.
- Renuka Thakur returns after injury.
- India aims for their first World Cup title.
Mumbai, Aug 19 (NationPress) Harmanpreet Kaur is gearing up to lead India for the first time in the ICC Women's ODI World Cup, with Smriti Mandhana serving as her deputy. The hosts have announced a robust 15-member squad for the upcoming edition of this prestigious tournament, set to begin on September 30.
One notable absence from the squad is opener Shafali Verma, while pace spearhead Renuka Thakur makes a comeback to the 15-member lineup following a lengthy injury recovery.
With Pooja Vastrakar sidelined due to a persistent stress injury, team management has identified an excellent substitute in Amanjot Kaur.
"Amanjot Kaur is currently with the India A team in Australia, and she will be part of the World Cup squad," stated captain Harmanpreet during a press conference at the BCCI headquarters.
This allrounder contributed as the second seamer during the T20I segment of India's tour of England, where they secured a 3-2 victory. In that series, she not only bowled effectively, taking three wickets in 13 overs, but also played a remarkable innings, scoring an unbeaten 63 runs to rescue a struggling batting performance.
As they approach this major event, Harmanpreet and her team are buoyed by a tri-series victory in Sri Lanka (which also included South Africa) and a historic series win in England.
India enters this year's tournament on home soil as a strong contender for the coveted trophy, although they will face tough competition from seven-time champions Australia and four-time winners England as India strives for their first World Cup title.
The Women in Blue are aiming to surpass their 2017 performance, when they reached their second Women's Cricket World Cup Final but narrowly lost to England in a thrilling finish at Lord's.
India will kick off their campaign against Sri Lanka at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on September 30.
India's World Cup squad includes: Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Smriti Mandhana (VC), Pratika Rawal, Harleen Deol, Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh, Yastika Bhatia, Renuka Singh Thakur, Deepti Sharma, Sneh Rana, Sree Charani, Radha Yadav, Amanjot Kaur, Arundhati Reddy, Kranti Gaud.
Point of View
I believe this squad led by Harmanpreet Kaur shows tremendous potential. Despite the absence of key players like Shafali Verma, the team is well-equipped with depth and talent. India’s recent performances build a strong case for them being serious contenders for the World Cup title. The experience in the squad combined with their home advantage could lead to a memorable tournament.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is leading India in the Women's ODI World Cup?
Harmanpreet Kaur is set to lead the Indian women's cricket team in the upcoming ICC Women's ODI World Cup.
When does the Women's ODI World Cup start?
The tournament begins on September 30.
Why is Shafali Verma not in the squad?
Shafali Verma is a notable omission from the squad for the World Cup.
Who is the vice-captain of the Indian team?
Smriti Mandhana will serve as the vice-captain for the Indian women's cricket team.
What is India's first match in the World Cup?
India's first match will be against Sri Lanka at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
