Mithali Raj Points Major Concerns In Key Areas for Indian Women’s Team Ahead of T20 World Cup

July 29, 2024 0 670

Mithali Raj recently pointed out some key areas of concern for Indian Women’s Cricket Team to work upon before T20 World Cup,

Former Indian women’s cricket team captain Mithali Raj has identified the number three batting position and bowling as key areas of concern for the team ahead of the Women’s T20 World Cup in October.

Speaking exclusively to Star Sports, Mithali Raj emphasised the need for a consistent number three batter to capitalize on the strong opening partnerships provided by Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana. The team has experimented with Hemlata and Chetry in this role but is yet to find a definitive solution.

Additionally, Raj expressed concerns over the bowling department, suggesting the need for a sixth bowling option, preferably an all-rounder, to strengthen the attack. With the World Cup set to be held in Bangladesh, Raj believes the Indian team has a golden opportunity to clinch the title, given the favourable conditions. She urged the team to play aggressive and competitive cricket to emerge victorious.

“Coming October, India is going to participate in the biggest tournament, the T20 Women’s World Cup. The area I think India should really focus on improving is the number 3 batter position. They are still searching for the right batter togo at number 3. They have tried Hemlata and they have tried Chetry. But ideally, they should have someone who can really go big after the sort of opening partnership that Shafali and Smriti would provide,” added Mithali Raj.

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“Also, the bowling aspect needs attention because right now they are going with only 5 bowlers. They probably require a 6th bowler, someone like an all-rounder who can bowl a few overs as well as bat. I think these are the areas India should look to tweak before getting into the World Cup,” added Mithali Raj regarding the team’s bowling concerns.

Lastly, the former cricketer conveyed her good wishes to the team, ending with an optimistic note. “My message to the Indian team would be to play good cricket, play hard cricket, and compete. I believe you all have a great chance because it’s in Bangladesh, a location with conditions that suit us. Our strengths have always been the spinners, and this time around our batting is also doing really well. So, good luck to you all,” Mithali concluded.