Home
India’s all-format skipper Harmanpreet Kaur suffered a knee injury while batting in the ODI series opener against Australia at Allan Border Field, Brisbane on February 24. Harmanpreet did not take the field in the second innings and Smriti Mandhana took over the captaincy duties.
“Captain Harmanpreet Kaur has not taken the field in the second innings after sustaining an injury to her left knee while batting. The BCCI Medical Team is monitoring her progress. Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana is leading the side in her absence,” the BCCI said in an official statement.
ALSO READ: 'Stay tuned': West Indies skipper Shai Hope creates suspense on using off-spin vs India
India bowled out for 214 despite fifties
Earlier, Harmanpreet won the toss and opted to bat first. She had to walk out early in the innings as Pratika Rawal, Shafali Verma and Jemimah Rodrigues were dismissed cheaply. The skipper shared a 48-run partnership with opener Mandhana who scored 58 runs from 68 deliveries. Harmanpreet went on to score 53 runs from 84 deliveries, featuring three fours. She was dismissed by Australia's spin-bowling all-rounder Ashleigh Gardener. India suffered a collapse and were bowled out for 214 despite Kashvee Gautam's spirited 44-ball 43. For Australia, Gardner bagged three wickets from seven overs she bowled.
ALSO READ: 'We know India are going to...': Zimbabwe coach wants players to learn from West Indies loss
Next ODI in Hobart
The second of the three-ODI series will be played at Bellerive Oval, Hobart. The Indian team would hope that Harmanpreet recovers before the second ODI. In case Harmanpreet is ruled out of the second ODI, India may replace her with either Harleen Deol or Amanjot Kaur.
After the three-ODI series, India are scheduled to take on Australia at Perth Stadium in the only Test.
India’s T20 World Cup 2026 opponents confirmed
Upon completion of the Australia tour, India will begin their preparations for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 on England soil. Harmanpreet will have plenty of time to recover as the tournament kicks off on June 12. India will begin their campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on June 14. Harmanpreet’s role will be crucial in the mega event.
India have been placed in Group 1 featuring Australia, South Africa, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Netherlands.
ADVERTISEMENT
