India's campaign kicks off on October 4 against New Zealand, followed by an eagerly awaited clash with arch-rivals Pakistan on October 6. After facing Sri Lanka again on October 9, they will conclude the group stage against Australia on October 13. All matches are set to take place in Dubai,<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Poonam highlighted the tactical decisions captain Harmanpreet Kaur may have to make, particularly regarding the balance between pacers and spinners in the playing XI.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cIf the dew factor becomes significant, captain Harmanpreet Kaur may opt for a team combination that includes one or two spinners. While she has shown confidence in the pacers, given the pitch's bounce, she may also consider using Asha Shobana, a wrist-spinner. Wrist spinners can turn the ball on any type of track, and their pace is generally slower.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
She further emphasised Deepti Sharma\u2019s role as a pivotal player in India\u2019s bowling attack, suggesting that both Sharma and Shobana could feature prominently in the World Cup, depending on conditions.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"Deepti Sharma will undoubtedly play a key role in leading India's bowling attack. It's possible that both Deepti Sharma and Asha Shobana could be included in the playing eleven. However, given Harmanpreet Kaur's preference for pacers, it\u2019s likely she will primarily rely on them,\u201d Poonam told Star Sports.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Previously, India suffered a disappointing loss in the 2020 T20 World Cup final against Australia and narrowly missed out on victory in the 2017 ODI World Cup, falling just nine runs short against England. The 2023 T20 World Cup semifinals ended in a similarly heartbreaking defeat to Australia, further fueling the desire to clinch the coveted title.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
India\u2019s group also includes Sri Lanka, New Zealand, and Pakistan, with each posing unique challenges. While Yadav acknowledged that Sri Lanka would be eager to defeat India again, she expressed confidence in India\u2019s history of World Cup success against them.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"I think Australia and India from our group will advance to the next stage, with Australia being a formidable opponent. India's performance in T20Is over the past two years has been impressive, with strong batting, bowling, and fielding. The team combination looks excellent, but Australia will undoubtedly pose a significant challenge. Sri Lanka will also be eager to defeat India again, though India has a history of success against them at the World Cup level. The match against Pakistan will be intriguing, but I am confident we will win.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"As for New Zealand, we played them in the same pool in 2018, and we defeated all the teams except Sri Lanka. Although we lost in the semi-finals, I believe our current team combination, positive environment, and Shafali Verma's crucial role will help us succeed. Her ability to quickly score 60-70 runs in the first six overs can put the opposition on the back foot, and I hope she continues to play this role,\" she said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Poonam also also pointed out how Shafali Verma\u2019s explosive batting at the top of the order could be a game-changer. \"Her ability to quickly score 60-70 runs in the first six overs can put the opposition on the back foot, and I hope she continues to play this role,\u201d she remarked.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The 33-year-old spinner also touched on the improvements within the Indian team under the guidance of coach Amol Mazumdar. \"Coach Amol Mazumdar has focused extensively on improving the team's fielding and fitness. He also organized a 10-day skill camp. I believe things are improving, and all the girls in the camp have been working hard.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Poonam also also pointed out how Shafali Verma\u2019s explosive batting at the top of the order could be a game-changer. \"Her ability to quickly score 60-70 runs in the first six overs can put the opposition on the back foot, and I hope she continues to play this role,\u201d she remarked.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
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