As the Indian Women's Cricket team prepares for their crucial World Cup semi-final clash against Australia, former India captain Anjum Chopra has offered valuable advice, emphasizing the need to seize key moments and create opportunities. Chopra's insights come at a critical juncture, with India aiming to overcome the defending champions for a place in the final.
Chopra highlighted the significance of the occasion, reminding the team that "Australia will not give you a second chance". She stressed the importance of recognizing and capitalizing on pivotal moments during the game. According to Chopra, success in the semi-final hinges on the team's ability to proactively create scoring opportunities and exert pressure on the Australian side.
India suffered a setback ahead of the semi-final, with opener Pratika Rawal ruled out of the tournament due to an injury sustained during the last league match against Bangladesh. Rawal's absence is a significant blow, as she has been a consistent performer at the top of the order, forming a formidable opening partnership with Smriti Mandhana. Shafali Verma has been approved as Rawal's replacement and will be playing her first WODI since October 2024.
Smriti Mandhana's role becomes even more crucial in Rawal's absence. Chopra cautioned Mandhana against repeating the mistake of "throwing her wicket away" after getting a good start, as she did in the previous match against Australia. Mandhana has been in excellent form, amassing 365 runs in the tournament. Chopra hopes that Mandhana will bring her A-game to the fore against Australia in the semi-final.
Chopra also lauded Mandhana and Rawal's opening partnership before Rawal's injury, highlighting their calmness and clarity. She noted that their understanding of each other's strengths and weaknesses has been key to their success.
Former India captain Mithali Raj echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of early breakthroughs to put pressure on Australia's batting lineup. Raj pointed out that Australia's middle order can be vulnerable if early wickets are taken. Raj also highlighted the importance of bowlers who can break partnerships.
India has faced Australia 15 times in the Women's World Cup, winning only three matches. The last time India won against Australia in the World Cup was in the 2017 semi-final.
India's coach, Amol Muzumdar, acknowledged the team's past struggles to finish matches strongly. He stated that the team has had discussions about this issue and is focused on improving their performance in this area.
As India prepares to face Australia, Anjum Chopra's words serve as a timely reminder of the need to be proactive, decisive, and resilient. With the stakes high and the opposition formidable, India must seize every opportunity to secure their place in the World Cup final.
