New Delhi, Oct 5 (NationPress) India’s men’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav is optimistic that the team led by Harmanpreet Kaur can maintain their undefeated record against Pakistan, aiming for a remarkable 12-0 in women’s ODIs, provided they ‘concentrate fully on delivering exceptional cricket’. India is set to clash with Pakistan in a crucial group-stage match of the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup in Colombo this Sunday.

“Women's cricket has evolved into a different style over the past couple of years, which is evident. They are performing well. Against Pakistan, they have shown good form. If they maintain this momentum, then I am confident that we will achieve mission 12-0, especially if our total focus is on the game,” Suryakumar mentioned during a conversation with JioStar.

He also recounted his recent chat with Harmanpreet and openly discussed the lack of rivalry in the India-Pakistan matches. “A few days ago, I spoke to the captain, and her campaign has kicked off successfully with everyone in good shape. They had a productive camp at the Centre of Excellence before the World Cup.”

“When the atmosphere is positive within the camp, and a supportive culture is established, victories naturally follow. I stand by this belief.”

“To me, rivalry is characterized by close competition, such as playing 12 games with scores like 6-all or 7-5. However, a record of 11-0 hardly qualifies as a rivalry. I believe the women's team can secure a 12-0 record today if they focus solely on their performance,” he stated.

When asked about key players, he singled out Deepti Sharma as a potential game-changer against Pakistan. “Although I am primarily a batsman, I recognize the crucial role all-rounders play in a team. If one aspect falters, they have the chance to shine in another.”

“I believe Deepti Sharma could be the crucial player today, both with the bat and the ball. I hope everyone contributes from start to finish, but in my opinion, Deepti might just be the standout performer today.”

Suryakumar also praised vice-captain Smriti Mandhana, referring to her as “the most reliable player for India” and commending her extraordinary 63-ball 125 against Australia in New Delhi last month.

“Playing in your home nation comes with pressure, but we have a wealth of experience playing in front of our crowd, which offers tremendous support.”

“I believe Smriti Mandhana has been exceptional. She has been our most consistent performer. If she continues her form, it will be a collective contribution from the team.”

“This is a great opportunity for everyone to step up, score runs, and advance in the tournament. It will require a complete team effort today and as we progress,” he concluded.

Suryakumar encouraged fans to support the team's ambition of clinching a World Cup title for the first time. “I hold a positive outlook this year. The women's team is showcasing outstanding cricket, and the atmosphere in the camp feels different this time around,” he reflected.

Looking back at India's success against Pakistan in the recent men’s Asia Cup, which they won in the UAE, Suryakumar reminisced, “It was my birthday that day, and I felt it was a gift from God. We aimed to play a solid brand of cricket, and we accomplished that, earning victories on the crucial Sundays.”