Anticipation and excitement are building up as the Indian women’s cricket team is poised for a much-awaited return to the field, ending a hiatus of over two months. With sights set firmly on the T20 World Cup set to take place in Bangladesh next year, the Women in Blue will host England and subsequently Australia, which could prove to be the most fitting prelude to the global tournament slated for October-November 2023.
The forthcoming home series against England, one of the finest teams in sub-continental conditions, offers the Indian team an optimal scenario to gear up and gauge their preparedness. The Indian squad is back in full force with its captain Harmanpreet Kaur and deputy Smriti Mandhana leading the charge. The inclusion of several promising young talents further adds a palpable sense of enthusiasm to the team.
Promising players like Shreyanka Patil and Saika Ishaque, who gained recognition through their performances in the Women’s Premier League, domestic cricket, and India A matches, stand on the cusp of their international debuts. Alongside them is the emerging Titas Sadhu, a name generating considerable intrigue, who will be seeking an opportunity to exhibit her prowess against formidable opposition.
The upcoming engagement with England is not merely a test but also an opportunity for the Indian team to explore the depth of their squad. A victory over such a distinguished opponent, while also rotating squad members in the lead up to the Australia series, would undoubtedly signify a strong assertion of India’s potential.
The T20 series against England commences on Wednesday, December 6, with a night encounter scheduled to start at 7 PM IST. Audiences across India can enjoy all three matches of the series broadcast live on Sports18 1 and Sports18 1 HD. To enhance the accessibility of this highly anticipated series, fans will be able to stream the matches live via the JioCinema app and website, available at no cost to all users.
The squads announced highlight a blend of seasoned performers and fresh faces eager to make their mark. The Indian contingent boasts talent in the form of Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh, captain Harmanpreet Kaur, Pooja Vastrakar, Deepti Sharma, Amanjot Kaur, Titas Sadhu, Renuka Thakur Singh, Mannat Kashyap, Shreyanka Patil, Saika Ishaque, Kanika Ahuja, Yastika Bhatia, and Minnu Mani.
England, on the other hand, arrives with a strong lineup including Danielle Wyatt, Maia Bouchier, Alice Capsey, captain Heather Knight, wicketkeeper Amy Jones, Sophie Ecclestone, Freya Kemp, Danielle Gibson, Charlotte Dean, Sarah Glenn, Mahika Gaur, Sophia Dunkley, Bess Heath, Lauren Bell, and Nat Sciver-Brunt.
As the two teams brace for a showcase of top-tier women’s cricket, the series promises not only a thrilling encounter but also vital insights into their preparations for the world stage. With the blend of experienced campaigners and rising stars, the series is an instrumental step for both teams on the road to the T20 World Cup, offering cricket aficionados a glimpse into the future of women’s cricket.