Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Aug 11: With the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 on the horizon, Indian women’s team captain Harmanpreet Kaur, vice-captain Smriti Mandhana, and star batter Jemimah Rodrigues are staying grounded. Instead of making bold predictions, the trio is focused on giving their best — fully aware of how unpredictable and challenging a global tournament can be.

India, co-hosting the World Cup with Sri Lanka, will welcome the tournament for the fourth time. Matches are set to be played in Bengaluru, Guwahati, Visakhapatnam, Indore, and Colombo. Despite past heartbreaks — a runner-up finish in 2017 and a fifth-place exit in 2022 — the squad is determined to build on recent momentum and capitalize on massive home support.

Drawing Strength from Fans and Past Performances

“Playing in front of a home crowd is always special. We hope to give our 100% this time,” said skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, reflecting on the energy fans bring to the stadium.

Smriti Mandhana echoed the sentiment:

“The World Cup is at home, and we know our fans will turn up in big numbers. Their blessings and presence mean the world to us. We promise to give our heart and soul.”

For Harman, memories of her legendary 171* against Australia in the 2017 World Cup semi-final still linger — a moment that became a turning point for women’s cricket in India.

“That match was special for me and for Indian women’s cricket. When we came back to India, even though we lost the final, the welcome we received was unforgettable.”

Jemimah’s Journey: From Fan to Player

Jemimah Rodrigues, who was a teenage fan in 2017, recalled reaching Mumbai airport at 5:30 a.m. with her U-18 teammates to welcome the returning squad.
“Back then, such scenes were unheard of in women’s sports. Now, it’s become more normal — and that’s the change we’re proud of.”

Now preparing for her first ODI World Cup, Jemimah is excited but focused, drawing confidence from India’s recent series wins in England.

Confidence from Recent Success

The team recently clinched both the ODI and T20I series in England — a result that didn’t surprise the players.

“We knew the kind of preparation we had done,” said Harman. “All the experienced players stepped up. We just kept things simple and focused on improving ourselves.”

Looking Ahead

As preparations begin, the ICC Women's World Cup trophy is set to tour cities like Delhi and Mumbai. For the first time, it will also visit schools, aiming to inspire the next generation of female cricketers.

With experience, renewed confidence, and passionate fan support, the Indian women’s team is gearing up — quietly but determinedly — for a strong showing at home in 2025.