Stronger Than Ever: India's Women's Cricket Team Prepares for T20 World Cup

Former Indian all-rounder Reema Malhotra confidently asserts that India won't face much challenge from Pakistan in the upcoming ICC Women's T20 World Cup. Emphasizing the strength of the Women's Premier League, Malhotra believes India is well-poised and better equipped to handle pressure and emerge victorious.

Former Indian all-rounder Reema Malhotra has stated that defeating Pakistan in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup will not pose a challenge for the Women in Blue, who she believes are a far superior team. The tournament is set to begin in the UAE from October 3, with India opening their campaign against New Zealand on October 4, followed by a high-stakes clash against Pakistan on October 6. Placed in Group A alongside Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, India aims to surpass their semi-final finish from the previous edition.

In a telephonic interview with ANI, Malhotra highlighted that facing the reigning champions Australia would be far more daunting than playing against Pakistan. According to her, the Women's Premier League (WPL), which launched in 2023, has significantly improved the Indian team's capacity to handle pressure. "In women's cricket, Pakistan has never been a challenge due to the quality of their cricket. India is a far superior team. I have never seen Pakistan as a challenging side," she said. Malhotra also identified wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh as India's 'X Factor' in the competition, citing her impressive record as a hard-hitting finisher.

Discussing India's squad, Malhotra expressed confidence in the team's blend of experienced players and young talent, which she believes makes India strong contenders to clinch the title. "This is the best team we have. The mix of experience and all-rounders strengthens our chances. Despite past heartbreaks against Australia, the team is now better equipped to manage pressure, thanks to the WPL," she added. While acknowledging the threat posed by Australia, she also identified Sri Lanka as a potential 'surprise package' in the tournament.

(With inputs from agencies.)