Snehasis Mukherjee in Dubai
The Sharjah Cricket Stadium is set to host a crucial game today between Australia and New Zealand at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. Both teams come into this match with wins in their respective opening games. Australia defeated Sri Lanka in Sharjah, while New Zealand won against India in Dubai. With that in mind, Alyssa Healy and her team will try to use their experience of playing on the same Sharjah ground, while New Zealand will need to adjust to different conditions.
At the pre-match press conference, New Zealand’s experienced opener Suzie Bates spoke to the media. When asked if their recent 3-0 T20I series loss to Australia just before this World Cup adds pressure or motivation, Bates responded confidently: “This is a World Cup, so it is a fresh challenge. Whatever happened before is behind us. We won against India, and if we play that same good cricket, we can beat the Aussies too.”
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Bates also emphasised New Zealand’s familiarity with Australia, noting that many of her teammates have played against them before. She added that adapting quickly to Sharjah’s conditions would be key for them. Bates also praised her young opening partner Georgia Plimmer, as she played a 23-ball 34-run knock against India and stitched a 67-run partnership. “It is always great when a youngster performs. As seniors, we are always there to help,” she added.
After the press conference, she joined the rest of the players at the training. The session had a light, fun vibe, with the players doing catching practice and music playing in the background. As per the given schedule, it was bound to happen that their practice would overlap with Australia’s by an hour, but the Aussies finished early and moved on to net sessions. Some Australian players were even spotted keeping an eye on New Zealand’s training.
Speaking about Australia’s practice session, it began with all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner leading the way, followed by the rest of the squad. They mixed in some Australian rules football. Former Aussie cricketer Mel Jones also visited the session, chatting with players and staff. The team’s body language showed confidence and determination, clearly aiming for a fourth consecutive World Cup title.
Whether Australia will continue their dominance or New Zealand will pull off a surprise remains to be seen. Indian fans will also be watching closely, as the outcome of the match could impact India’s chances in the tournament.
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