Indian women all set to tackle defending champions today in the Women's World Cup
India women’s team led by Mithali Raj will have an upper hand when they take on defending champions England in their ICC Women’s World Cup league match at Brabourne Stadium today.
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Sulakshana Naik, another wicketkeeping option for India, makes an acrobatic effort at Brabourne Stadium on Saturday. PIC/Atul Kamble
Thanks to a 105-run win against West Indies in the opening match, the host team look confident to continue their fine run in the tournament. After facing a last-ball, one-wicket defeat to Sri Lanka, England need to tread cautiously. The match will be a do-or-die situation for the Charlotte Edwards-led side if they want to keep their hopes alive to defend the title.
‘Open’ tournament
Mithali, the No 1 batswoman in ODIs in the ICC women’s rankings, said: “I did tell you that the tournament is open because each and every team is scoring 200-plus runs. They are also able to chase. I think the tournament has opened up even more after yesterday’s upset.”
Mithali Raj
Meanwhile, the 30-year-old added that bowling seems to be an area of concern for England. “I think England have a good batting side, but their bowling is weak.
They depend on Katherine Brunt a lot. Last year, we played England and our batters are now comfortable playing their bowlers. We are well prepared,” said the India captain. If England lose to India, and if West Indies beat Sri Lanka in the other game at MIG Cricket Club, England’s chances of advancing will be bleak.
England skipper Edwards touched upon the do-or-die aspect. “If we don’t win, it is going to be very hard to make it to the Super Six,” she said.
Mithali, who is playing her fourth World Cup, refused to take England lightly. “I am sure they would field a strong side to play us. We are well prepared for this and I would tell my girls to be positive and confident,” the India captain said.u00a0
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