The BCCI has announced India's squad for the upcoming Women's Asia Cup 2024 which is set to be played in Sri Lanka. Led by Harmanpreet Kaur, the Indian women's cricket team finds itself in Group A for the upcoming tournament. Their journey begins on July 19th with a clash against arch-rivals Pakistan. The Women in Blue will then face UAE on July 21st, followed by a match against Nepal on July 23rd to round out their group stage fixtures.
There are few surprises, with experienced campaigners Harmanpreet Kaur (captain), Smriti Mandhana, and Deepti Sharma retaining their spots.
While Mumbai Indians spinner Saika Ishaque, who impressed in the WPL 2023 and made her international debut in December 2023, hasn't been included. Ishaque did pick up wickets in her limited T20I appearances but wasn't part of the recent series against South Africa.
The squad also sees some exclusions from the ongoing South Africa series. All-rounder Amanjot Kaur and young pacer Shabnam Shakil miss out on the Asia Cup selection.
Young Guns Lead India's Batting Charge
The Indian batting line-up boasts a strong core of young talent, with the likes of Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, and wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh taking center stage. The captain and vice-captain will add further experience to the batting order.
Balanced Bowling Attack
India also has a well-rounded bowling attack with options in both pace and spin. Renuka Singh Thakur, Pooja Vastrakar, and Arundhati Reddy provide pace options, while Asha Sobhana, Shreyanka Patil, and Radha Yadav bring variety with their spin bowling. The team is further bolstered by a strong group of four reserves: Shweta Sehrawat, Saika Ishaque, Tanuja Kanwer, and Meghna Singh. These players offer depth and can be called upon depending on the match situation and opposition.
India's squad for Women's Asia Cup 2024
Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Smriti Mandhana (VC), Shafali Verma, Deepti Sharma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh (WK), Uma Chetry (WK), Pooja Vastrakar, Arundhati Reddy, Renuka Singh Thakur, Dayalan Hemalatha, Asha Sobhana, Radha Yadav, Shreyanka Patil, Sajana Sajeevan
Traveling reserves: Shweta Sehrawat, Saika Ishaque, Tanuja Kanwer, Meghna Singh
WOMEN’S ASIA CUP T20, 2024 – INDIA’S FIXTURES | ||||
No. | Date | Day | Match | Venue |
1 | 19-Jul-24 | Friday | India vs Pakistan | Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla |
2 | 21-Jul-24 | Sunday | India vs UAE | Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla |
3 | 23-Jul-24 | Tuesday | India vs Nepal | Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla |
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