India enter the tournament as a formidable contender for the glittering trophy, with the competition returning to the country for the first time since 2013. The hosts possess a batting arsenal headlined by the explosive Smriti Mandhana, fresh off a stunning 50-ball century against Australia in New Delhi, alongside players like Harmanpreet, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh, and Jemimah Rodrigues, who complement her very well.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The questions, however, remain about India's bowling attack and ground fielding, with lapses surfacing during the recent 2-1 bilateral series loss to Australia. India will be aiming to address these vulnerabilities as soon as possible in their pursuit of glory on home soil.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
A home World Cup triumph for India could transform women\u2019s cricket in the country forever. It might lead to increased grassroots investment, strengthen the case for pay parity with male cricketers across all levels and make a strong case for premier venues to regularly host women\u2019s matches.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
More importantly, winning this World Cup would give millions of young girls a historic moment of national pride on home soil. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka, led by veteran skipper Chamari Athapaththu, who is likely playing in her final ODI World Cup, arrive as formidable underdogs.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
While Athapaththu, Harshitha Samarawickrama, and Vishmi Gunaratne provide batting firepower, with some support from Nilakshika Silva and Kavisha Dilhari, their bowling lacks consistency against elite lineups. The Islanders memorably upset hosts South Africa at the 2023 Women's T20 World Cup and will aim for another giant-killing act against a formidable Indian team.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
When: Tuesday, September 30, 3:00 PM IST<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Where: Assam Cricket Association Stadium, Guwahati<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Where to watch: Star Sports Network for live TV broadcast and JioHotstar for live streaming<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Squads<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Where to watch: Star Sports Network for live TV broadcast and JioHotstar for live streaming<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Sri Lanka: Chamari Athapaththu, Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunarathne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Kaveesha Dilhari, Nilakshika Silva, Anushka Sanjeewani, Imesha Dulani, Dewmi Vihanga, Piumi Wathsala, Inoka Ranaweera, Sugandika Dasanayaka, Udeshika Prabodani, Malki Madara, and Achini Kulasooriya.<\/p>\r\n\r\n