Snehasis Mukherjee in Navi Mumbai
Only five India players turned up for the practice session before their clash against Bangladesh on October 26 in Navi Mumbai. After sealing a semi-final spot with a win over New Zealand, the Bangladesh match carries little significance for the Women in Blue. However, Harleen Deol, Uma Chetry, Arundhati Reddy, Radha Yadav, and Amanjot Kaur made full use of the session.
Harleen and Uma batted for a longer period in the nets, taking turns against the bowlers and taking throwdowns. Amanjot, Arundhati, and Radha were seen bowling. Harleen, who did not get a chance to bat in the previous game as Jemimah Rodrigues was promoted to No. 3 and scored an unbeaten 76, looked a bit rusty today. She was beaten a few times by Arundhati and Radha, and struggled to find her timing early on.
In contrast, reserve wicketkeeper Uma looked in fine touch. She played some elegant strokes on both sides of the wicket against pace and spin alike. A powerful slog-sweep for six followed by a few crisp straight drives stood out. Her footwork against spin was impressive, as she confidently used her feet and middled most deliveries.
Both Amanjot and Arundhati lacked a bit of rhythm, struggling with their line and consistency. Still, their efforts were steady throughout the session. Considering regular wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh’s finger injury from the New Zealand match, where Uma replaced her midway through the innings, it seems likely Uma could make her World Cup debut tomorrow.
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Bowling coach Aavishkar Salvi, speaking at the pre-match press conference, confirmed that Richa’s injury is not serious but said she continues to be monitored by the strength and conditioning team. His update seemed a hint that Uma might get a chance in the playing XI.
Renuka Singh could also be rested to manage her workload, with Amanjot possibly stepping in as her replacement. During the training, a clear pattern was observed. The bowlers started from over the wicket before switching to round the wicket. Later, Salvi poured water on the balls and asked the bowlers to bowl with them, simulating dew conditions ahead of the game.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s training was briefly disrupted by rain. Just as they were about to start, showers forced the ground staff to cover both the main and practice pitches. After a long delay, they finally resumed practice, going through their net sessions one by one.
Despite managing only one win in the tournament so far, Bangladesh have shown great spirit throughout their campaign. They will look to end their journey on a high with another fighting performance against the hosts tomorrow.
Also Read: Should India add Amanjot or Arundhati as sixth-bowling action ahead of the Bangladesh clash?