India captain Harmanpreet Kaur acknowledged that it is not easy to play at home due to the huge expectations, as the Women in Blue defeated New Zealand by 53 runs via the DLS method in their do-or-die clash to secure their berth in the semifinals of the Women's ODI World Cup.
The Indian skipper revealed that the team has decided to enjoy the situation instead of considering it as pressure.
"Whenever you are playing at home, everyone expects a lot from you. As a team, we discuss that this is our home and the crowd is always cheering for us. This is a moment to enjoy rather than just putting pressure (on ourselves)," Harmanpreet Kaur said in post match conference.
Harmanpreet Kaur on India's execution against New Zealand
India faced New Zealand after suffering three consecutive defeats against South Africa, Australia and England, respectively. Harmanpreet lauded her teammates for the way her team handled the situation and executed their plans.
"Really happy with the way we executed. It was not easy (after three defeats). But everyone in the team stood up. The way we lifted each other that shows how positive we were. We knew the last three games did not go well, but we knew we are going to change it. Today was the right time, and really happy (we could do it)," said the skipper.
Harmanpreet Kaur lauded Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal
Harmanpreet also lauded opening batters Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal for converting their start into centuries. Mandhana scored an aggressive 95-ball 109 while Rawal compiled 122 off 134 balls as they shared a massive 212-run partnership that helped India score a mammoth 340/3 in 49 overs. However, New Zealand were set a revised target of 325 in 44 overs following another rain interruption. Clinical bowling by the hosts restricted the White Ferns to 271/8 in 44 overs. Harmanpreet said it was not as easy as it looked, and the team had to fight all the way.
"It was not easy. Credit goes to the entire team for the way we fought today. We knew how important this game was; the entire team was charged up and happy with how we played today.
"We were getting starts, but unfortunately, were unable to make it big. Credit goes to Smriti and Pratika for the way they took responsibility. We got a very good start," added Harmanpreet.
Why did Jemimah Rodrigues bat at number three against New Zealand?
Jemimah, who missed India's last clash against South Africa, got a promotion in batting as she batted at number three and the star batter smashed 55-ball 76 to help India to a massive total. Harmanpreet revealed that they decided to send Jemimah at number three after Smriti and Pratika's 200-run stand for the second wicket.
"When they (Smriti and Pratika) both scored 200 runs on the board, that is when we decided if we can put Jemi (in at 3). The way she batted that is what the entire world was expecting from her," said Harman.
India will face Bangladesh in their last league clash before the semifinals, which is scheduled to take place on October 26 at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.