Irfan Pathan Optimistic About Indian Women's T20 World Cup Prospects

A New Year and New Hopes for Indian Women's Cricket

As the Indian women's cricket team steps into the new year, they carry the pride of having secured their first-ever 50-over World Cup title last year. Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan expressed his confidence in the team's ability to excel in the upcoming T20 World Cup, emphasizing their enhanced 'power game'.

During a discussion on JioHotstar, Pathan highlighted that Team India is eager to clinch their first T20 World Cup title, especially after the disappointment of finishing as runners-up in the 2020 ICC T20 World Cup. With renewed confidence following their 50-over World Cup victory, the team is gearing up for the challenges ahead, starting with a 5-0 series triumph over Sri Lanka. They find themselves in a competitive Group A alongside Australia, Pakistan, South Africa, and two qualifying teams.

Pathan noted that participating in the Women's Premier League (WPL) in January and February, prior to the T20 World Cup scheduled for June and July, will provide the team with valuable match experience and options in case of injuries. He stated, 'Having a variety of players will be beneficial. The current squad has not been seen together for the last eight to ten years. Playing in the WPL before the World Cup will boost their confidence, and I believe they can easily adapt their ODI form to T20s. The improvement in the power game of our women cricketers is significant, and I am hopeful that these elements will align for success. Once they acclimatize to the English conditions, it will be challenging to stop India.'

Additionally, former Indian fast bowler Varun Aaron remarked on Australia's historical dominance over India, referring to them as a 'bogey team'. However, after India's remarkable victory over Australia in the World Cup semifinals, he believes the team now feels capable of achieving great things. 'The momentum is currently with Team India, and with strong support from fans and the BCCI, they have a solid chance. However, Australia will be eager for revenge,' he concluded.

Team India is set to kick off their T20 World Cup campaign against Pakistan on June 14 in Birmingham.