Birmingham: India women’s cricket team head coach Amol Muzumdar has said the team will draw inspiration from its ODI World Cup triumph while preparing for the challenges of the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup. India will begin its campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan at Edgbaston on Sunday, with expectations running high following the team’s recent success in the 50-over format.
Despite the optimism surrounding the squad, Muzumdar emphasised that the T20 format presents a completely different challenge and said the players are focused on starting afresh in the global tournament.
ODI success offers confidence boost
Speaking ahead of India’s opening match, Muzumdar said the team’s World Cup-winning experience would serve as motivation but not create additional pressure.
He pointed out that India’s title success came in the ODI format and that the shorter format requires a different approach and mindset.
According to the coach, the players will carry the confidence gained from their recent achievements while remaining aware of the unique demands of T20 cricket.
Muzumdar expressed confidence that the team possesses the ability to deliver when it matters most and said the players are eager to begin their campaign on a positive note.
Praise for Yastika’s comeback
Muzumdar reserved special praise for wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia, who has made a successful return to international cricket after recovering from a serious knee injury.
Yastika missed last year’s ODI World Cup after suffering a major injury that required surgery and an extended rehabilitation period.
The left-handed batter returned during India’s recent T20I series against England and emerged as the team’s highest run-scorer despite the series defeat.
Muzumdar described her comeback as an example of resilience and determination, noting that her return reflects the fighting spirit within the Indian squad.
He said overcoming such a significant setback and earning a place back in the national team demonstrated Yastika’s character and commitment.
Mixed results ahead of tournament
India enter the Women’s T20 World Cup following consecutive series defeats against England and South Africa.
However, the team managed to secure a victory against the West Indies in a warm-up fixture before losing its final preparatory match against England.
The coaching staff believes the recent matches have provided valuable preparation and helped the players adapt to conditions ahead of the tournament.
Challenging group awaits India
India have been placed in a competitive Group A alongside Pakistan, Bangladesh, South Africa, Australia and the Netherlands.
The group features several strong contenders, making every match crucial in the race for a place in the knockout stage.
India will look to begin with a victory against Pakistan before facing the remaining teams in a challenging schedule.
With experienced players, emerging talent and confidence gained from recent international success, the team will be aiming to mount a serious challenge for its first Women’s T20 World Cup title.
Focus on a fresh campaign
While the ODI World Cup triumph remains a significant achievement, Muzumdar stressed that the squad is fully focused on the task ahead.
The coach believes the experience of winning a major global title can provide valuable confidence, but ultimately performances on the field will determine India’s fortunes in the T20 tournament.
As the competition begins, India will seek to combine momentum, experience and determination in pursuit of another memorable chapter in women’s cricket.