Mithali Raj Critiques India's Cricket Performance: Time for a Leadership Shift?

Former Indian captain Mithali Raj criticized India's underwhelming Women's T20 World Cup performance, attributing it to lack of growth in key areas over the last three years. She highlighted issues like poor adaptation to conditions, unclear player roles, ineffective fielding, and suggested a leadership change in the team.

Mithali Raj, former captain of India's women's cricket team, has voiced concerns over the team's lackluster performance in the Women's T20 World Cup. She believes that the team has stagnated across various departments, which led to their failure in advancing to the knockout phase under Harmanpreet Kaur's leadership.

In an interview from Dubai, Mithali pointed out several issues including unsuitable adaptation to UAE conditions, unclear batting roles, inadequate bench strength testing, and subpar fielding efforts. The ex-captain compared India's static performance with the growth of other teams like South Africa.

Mithali also questioned the team's strategic planning and player roles, highlighting the need for a leadership change, suggesting a younger captain like Jemima Rodriguez, to energize the squad. She emphasized the importance of testing bench players post major tournaments for better team depth and fitness benchmarks.

(With inputs from agencies.)