Harmanpreet Kaur’s Indian women’s cricket team is set to resume international duties as they prepare to face the reigning T20 World Cup champions, New Zealand, in a highly anticipated three-match ODI series. The series will kick off on October 24 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, a venue that will host all three matches in this exciting contest.
Following a disappointing performance in the recent T20 World Cup, where India failed to progress beyond the league stage, the team is looking to regain its momentum and restore confidence. The squad has undergone some changes ahead of this series, with Richa Ghosh unavailable as she is focused on preparing for her board exams. Additionally, Asha Sobhana is still recovering from a knee injury she sustained prior to the match against Australia.
Pooja Vastrakar has also been rested after missing a few games due to a niggle. However, the squad sees the introduction of fresh faces: Saima Thakor, Priya Mishra, Sayali Satgare, and Tejal Hasabnis have all been selected, adding a new dynamic to the team. In Ghosh's absence, Uma Chetry has been included as the second wicketkeeper alongside Yastika Bhatia, who will take on a crucial role behind the stumps.
On the other hand, the New Zealand team, captained by Sophie Devine, is coming off a triumphant victory in the Women’s T20 World Cup held in the UAE. They are keen to build on this success and maintain their winning momentum. Wicketkeeper-batter Polly Inglis has received a national call-up following her impressive performances in domestic cricket, while Lauren Down returns to the squad after taking maternity leave. However, Rosemary Mair has been omitted from the squad as she recovers from a back injury.
A key player to watch in the New Zealand camp will be Amelia Kerr, who shone in the T20 World Cup final, earning the Player of the Match award, as well as the overall Player of the Tournament accolade. Her form will be crucial as the White Ferns aim to continue their winning streak against a determined Indian side.
The matches in the ODI series are scheduled to start at 1:30 PM IST (1:30 PM local time) and 08:00 AM GMT, creating an exciting opportunity for fans to witness high-quality women’s cricket. For those looking to catch the action, Sports 18 will broadcast the series, with live streaming available through the Jio Cinemas app.
As the series unfolds, cricket enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating how both teams will perform, especially given the stakes for India to bounce back and for New Zealand to continue their winning ways.
