Harmanpreet Kaur, India Women’s captain, did not attend the pre-match news conference for the first T20I against England Women. Smriti Mandhana, the vice-captain, replaced Harmanpreet and faced the media.
Smriti explained that Harmanpreet Kaur was not feeling well, therefore she couldn’t go.
When asked about the former’s participation in the first Twenty20 International, she remained quietly optimistic.
“I don’t believe she’s not playing; she’s just sick today. “I am just filling in (for Harmanpreet) today,” Smriti said at the pre-match press conference, as reported by News18.
She appeared delighted with the team’s practice at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru before heading to the UK.
“I’ve spent around 25 days preparing. We held a batters and bowlers camp at the NCA, which was also very targeted and unique to this tour and the World Cup,” Smriti added.
Smriti Mandhana emphasised the importance of arriving in England early to prepare for the series.
“We arrived earlier here, had a nice eight days of preparation, and a few good practice matches, during which we learnt a lot about England’s conditions. Many of the girls were on their first England tour, so it was crucial for them to arrive early and get acclimated to the conditions. “Preparation for the series has been going well,” she explained.
India Women will play five T20Is followed by three ODIs against the Nat Sciver-Brunt-led unit. This white-ball series is intended to serve as an ideal source of game time for the players, most of who will be a part of the squad for the Women’s ODI World Cup to be held from September to November later this year.
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