New Delhi, Oct 6 (NationPress) Indian cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues expressed that the current team is motivated to clinch the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup to pay tribute to those who have laid the groundwork for women's cricket in India.

Jemimah's statement follows India's impressive second consecutive win in the tournament, with an 88-run triumph over Pakistan at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Sunday. “When I first joined the team, Mithali di and Jhulan di were our seniors, and witnessing the transition to Harman di and Smriti leading together is truly special,” she remarked.

“They have fostered an environment where everyone is eager to give their utmost for the team. Our aim is also to win for those who paved the way, including Mithali di, Jhulan di (Jhulan Goswami), Neetu ma’am (Neetu David), and all those who contributed to the growth of women’s cricket,” Jemimah stated on JioHotstar.

She also noted that the challenging conditions in both Guwahati and Colombo necessitated tactical changes from the batters. “Both venues (Guwahati and Colombo) have been slightly difficult for the batters, especially as the pitch had been covered, causing the ball to grip early on.

“The spinners bowled exceptionally well, so we knew we needed to adapt, take the game deep, and build partnerships. Everyone played a role, and towards the end, Richa’s fireworks propelled us to a winning total,” she added.

Jemimah highlighted the team's culture and mental strategy, especially in the high-pressure environment of a global tournament. “We aim to take it one day at a time and remain present. In our group discussions, we prioritize creating our own bubble because of the noise that surrounds a World Cup.

“Regardless of our performance, we want to keep distractions at bay and cultivate our own energy. Everyone in this team genuinely supports each other and celebrates each other’s achievements. This camaraderie comes naturally and significantly strengthens our connection,” she concluded.

Former Indian captain Mithali Raj praised Kranti Gaud’s exceptional rise in international cricket after the young pacer earned the Player of the Match award with her figures of 3-20 against Pakistan, showcasing her remarkable inswingers and consistent lines.

“Kranti Gaud’s international experience is still limited, having debuted this year, but her ability to learn and adapt quickly is impressive. She’s putting in the effort and adjusting well to various conditions, whether in England, where she took six wickets, or in Sri Lanka and Guwahati,” she commented.

“She understands her strengths and quickly settles into the right line and length. You can see she doesn’t require the usual warm-up. From her very first delivery, she’s precise with her lengths and intent,” she remarked.

India's next match will be against South Africa at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam on October 9, followed by a crucial showdown against the defending champions, Australia, at the same venue on October 12.