Snehasis Mukherjee in Navi Mumbai
Team India have sealed a place in the semi-final of the ongoing ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup with a 53-run win (DLS method) over New Zealand. They will now face either Australia or South Africa in the semi-final. But before that, India will play their final group game against Bangladesh on October 26, in Navi Mumbai.
While playing New Zealand, India brought back Jemimah Rodrigues into the playing XI after she was dropped for the England match. After a massive 212-run opening stand, the team management finally showed flexibility in their batting order by promoting Jemimah to number three. She repaid the faith with an unbeaten 76 off just 55 balls, scoring at a strike rate of 138.18. Her knock powered India to 340/3 in 49 overs.
However, to fit Jemimah into the XI, India once again went in with the five-bowler formula. The lack of a proper sixth-bowling option had already hurt them against South Africa and Australia, where defending totals became difficult. Against England, they tried six bowlers but dropped Jemimah, a move that clearly backfired.
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Looking ahead, starting from the Bangladesh match, India might consider adding another bowling option. To do that, they may have to drop someone like Harleen Deol. If Jemimah continues at number three, it becomes tough for Harleen to make a strong impact at number five or six. At that stage of the game, the team might benefit more from an all-rounder. At number three, Harleen has managed starts but failed to convert those into big ones.
Amanjot Kaur or Arundhati Reddy could be ideal replacements. Amanjot brings balance to the side as a steady bowler in the middle overs and a capable batter. Amanjot’s 57 off 56 balls against Sri Lanka in the tournament opener showed her value. Even with the ball, she has managed four wickets in four games so far.
Arundhati, meanwhile, is yet to play a game in this World Cup but has been impressive in training. Her energy, aggression, and variations, especially her slower balls, could prove handy. Including either of them would give India a more balanced lineup.
With dew expected to play a key role, not having a sixth-bowling option could backfire. The management may need to take a tough call before stepping onto the field against Bangladesh to keep the dream of lifting the home World Cup alive.
Also Read: Renuka and Kranti – India’s new-ball spark that reignited the World Cup campaign