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The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 has already kicked off on Thursday in the UAE with a matchup between Bangladesh and Scotland. Harmanpreet Kaur-led Team India will begin their campaign against New Zealand a day later, on October 4, 2024. Ahead of the tournament, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh shared his thoughts on the teams that could pose a tough challenge for India in the competition.
Team India is placed in Group A, which is the tough group including teams Australia, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and New Zealand in the Women's T20 World Cup. Harbhajan Singh, known for his expertise in spin bowling, believes that India must be cautious, especially when facing Australia and Sri Lanka. The former cricketer emphasized the need for India to be careful against Australia.
One match that I think will be a little tough is the India-Australia match: Harbhajan Singh
In his latest interview, Harbhajan Singh assessed the Group A in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2024, and said, "Looking at this group, India has Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. But one match that I think will be a little tough is the India-Australia match. Australia is a good team, even though these matches are being played in Dubai, on subcontinent pitches that might not suit them as much as their home conditions. But Australia, no matter where they play, is hard to beat. So, the biggest challenge for India may be Australia."
Historically, Australia dominated India in T20Is, winning 23 out of 32 matches. Team India struggled a lot and managed to secure only seven wins. Additionally, the 44-year-old also pointed out that Sri Lanka poses a significant challenge after recently defeating India in the Asia Cup final. With players like Chamari Athapaththu and Harshitha Samarawickrama, Sri Lanka is entering the tournament with confidence. He said, "Sri Lanka, too, after their recent series win against India, will be confident when they play against India. So, that will also be a good contest."
India can lift their maiden ICC title in women's cricket: Harbhajan Singh
Despite the challenges, Harbhajan Singh shows confidence in Team India’s ability to lift their maiden ICC title, saying, "Team India will be the team to beat in this tournament. They have both experience and youth. Harman (captain Harmanpreet Kaur) is in good form, Smriti (Mandhana) is in good form, and Deepti (Sharma) is an unbelievable spinner. They are a very capable team and have been playing very good cricket. The unit looks solid. If India plays good cricket overall, I believe they will win this tournament."
Harbhajan Singh also advised the team to take one game at a time. "You have to try to give your best and not take pressure. At this stage, the only thing that matters is to know yourself and play as a unit. Results will follow. Don't think about the big picture; just take small steps with each match and focus on the process. I hope if they follow these things, our team will perform very well," he added.
