New Delhi, Sep 28 (NationPress) Few athletes have impacted the women's cricket landscape as profoundly and across so many roles as Lisa Sthalekar. A four-time World Cup champion for Australia, including two titles in the ODI format, Lisa's journey has transitioned from player to coach, mentor, and commentator.

With the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup beginning on September 30, Lisa shared her thoughts with IANS in an exclusive interview regarding the imminent marquee event, Australia’s chances of retaining their title, and India’s potential as a serious contender for the trophy. Here are some excerpts:

Q. Do you think the upcoming competition could be the most fiercely contested Women's ODI World Cup?

A. Absolutely! Looking back at the 2022 World Cup, we witnessed nearly 10 matches that went down to the last over, which was simply remarkable. While it may not be as tightly contested this time, I expect to see a real challenge from other countries, which we haven't seen in the past. The latest cycle of international women’s championships and increased exposure has ushered in younger talent. This is the first time we truly see players emerging from the U19 World Cup.

With these younger players stepping up and impacting the senior team, I anticipate more depth among most teams, leading to tough encounters and no easy matches.

Q. Does Australia possess everything needed to defend their ODI World Cup title?

A. They have the right elements, but everyone knows that a World Cup is a different beast compared to a bilateral series. The realities of traveling across India, dealing with the heat and exhaustion, and the possibility of injuries add to the complexity. This World Cup might showcase players who are truly professionals, adept at transitioning from one tournament to another, whether in domestic T20 leagues or bilateral series. This means they’ll face more games and potentially more injuries and rotations.

Ultimately, it will be a test of endurance over a demanding month of World Cup cricket. While Australia has the necessary components, they are not alone. India appears to be stronger than ever in this format, thanks to their batting depth and bowling options.

Q. How do you view the Indian team as title contenders?

A. I echo Alyssa's sentiment that they enjoy the advantage of the home crowd, which can provide a significant boost but also adds pressure. It’s essential for India to start strong in this tournament, especially since Smriti Mandhana has already shown her prowess against Australia.

She seems poised for a standout World Cup, and if she performs, she could uplift her teammates, leading to formidable totals or successful chases. They have all the right ingredients.

Deepti Sharma has matured as an all-rounder, finally securing her place. Richa Ghosh adds explosive potential in the latter stages, which can finalize the groundwork laid during the middle overs. There are several exciting players, and I eagerly await their performances.

Q. Besides Australia and India, who else could make it to the semifinals?

A. For me, England remains a question mark. Nat Sciver-Brunt's phenomenal hundred in the warm-up match against India was impressive. I believe both Nat Sciver-Brunt and Heather Knight are crucial for England's success.

They also have a strong bowling lineup with Lauren Bell, Sophie Ecclestone, and Charlie Dean, but they struggle to find consistent batting outside of Knight and Sciver-Brunt.

If players like Amy Jones, Tammy Beaumont, or Sophia Dunkley can deliver standout performances, England could clinch a semifinal spot. However, I would currently place them just outside the top four, with New Zealand and South Africa as other potential contenders.

Q. What distinguishes the Australian setup from other teams?

A. Their hunger and determination are palpable, and they recognize that World Cups are the ultimate goal. All players emphasize this. Under pressure, they maintain composure and boast multiple match-winners capable of stepping up.

They don't rely on just one or two players; any player can emerge as a game-changer. Historically, when Australia loses a World Cup, they tend to dominate in the following tournaments. Their failure to reach the finals or losing the last T20 World Cup has fueled their hunger.

They aim for a feat not achieved since 1988: winning consecutive 50-over World Cup titles. Despite the incredible talents of Lanning and Haynes, they have yet to secure back-to-back championships, but this group has the potential to be the first in a long time.

Q. How do you view the World Cup being held at venues with limited international women's cricket history?

A. I once played in Vizag, and one of the best aspects of such venues is their smaller stadium capacities. For matches not involving India, the goal is often to fill the stands and create an electric atmosphere.

A World Cup's magic lies in fan engagement. Do fans show up enthusiastically? Are they cheering? Have they adopted another team alongside India? If the audience can rally, it significantly impacts the event.

We witnessed this in Australia during the Women's Football World Cup. Attending a game between Colombia and England, I was surprised by the large Colombian presence in Sydney.

The stadium buzzed with excitement, music, and cheers, creating a unique atmosphere. I hope fans come out to support women's sports as a whole. While supporting the Indian team is fantastic, backing women's cricket is equally vital for its growth.