Indian Women Team: Indian women’s team captain Smriti Mandhana said on Thursday that opening batsman Shafali Verma, who was dropped last year due to poor performance, is definitely in the team’s plans. With regular captain Harmanpreet Kaur rested, Mandhana will lead the Indian team in the three-match ODI series against Ireland starting on Friday.
Along with Harmanpreet, fast bowler Renuka Thakur has also been rested for this series. Shefali, known for her aggressive batting, was dropped from the team for the ODI series against Australia in December.
“Harmanpreet has been rested,” Mandhana said on the eve of the match against Ireland. Shafali has not been a part of the team in the last two or three ODI series. In his absence, Pratika (Rawal) performed really well in the last series. Shefali has scored a lot of runs in domestic cricket during this period and she is definitely included in the plans of the national team. Mandhana said, “I am happy that she has scored a lot of runs in domestic cricket.” Expressed hope of good performance from the team with resources.
“We don’t need to think about what we don’t have as a team,” he said. We want to keep a positive mindset that we have a really balanced team. The players who have got a chance in the team are doing really well.” The Indian team had to face defeat on the Australia tour but the team won 2-2 in the T20 International series and ODI series against West Indies on home soil respectively. 1 and won 3-0.
The strong performance against West Indies has boosted the morale of the team. Mandhana said, “The series against West Indies definitely boosted our confidence a lot. Our batsmen and bowlers had performed brilliantly. Hopefully we will continue that momentum.” The Indian captain said that with the absence of Harmanpreet and Renuka, the young players will have the challenge of showcasing their talent. Mandhana said, “Both have got rest, so this will be a good opportunity for the young players.” I am sure whoever gets the opportunity will try to grab it with both hands.
