India's women's cricket team is using the ongoing five-match T20I series against Sri Lanka to solidify their plans for
the ICC Women's T20 World Cup in the UK next year. With a 2-0 lead secured, the third match saw India experimenting with
different combinations and evaluating player performances, with a particular focus on the bowling attack.
One significant aspect of the match was the comeback of Renuka Singh Thakur, who had been strategically rested for the
first two games. Her inclusion in the third T20I proved impactful, as she spearheaded the bowling attack. Renuka's
performance is being closely watched, as head coach Amol Muzumdar has emphasized her importance to the team's plans for
Another player under scrutiny is left-arm spinner Vaishnavi Sharma, who made her international debut in this series.
Despite going unpicked in the WPL auction, her consistent domestic performance earned her a spot in the national team.
While she went wicketless in this particular match, conceding 14 runs in her 3 overs, her overall control and economical
bowling throughout the series have been promising, as Muzumdar pointed out. Her ability to maintain composure and
execute her skills under pressure is a valuable asset for the team.
The Sri Lankan batting lineup struggled to build substantial partnerships, with Imesha Dulani's 27 off 32 balls being a
notable contribution. However, consistent breakthroughs by the Indian bowlers prevented them from establishing momentum.
India's fielding, though not without its flaws (Sree Charani dropping a catch), generally supported the bowlers in
Amanjot Kaur, who has acknowledged the need to improve her bowling, bowled her full quota of overs and experimented with
variations in length and pace. While she remained wicketless and had a catch dropped off her bowling, the experience
gained in this series will be crucial for her development as an all-rounder.
The Indian team management is actively assessing the performances of various players to identify the optimal team
composition and strategy for the T20 World Cup. The focus is on improving in all facets of the game, including fitness,
to ensure that the team is well-prepared for the challenges ahead. As Muzumdar stated, the team is progressively working
towards solidifying their plans and addressing any areas that need improvement before the major tournament.
While the Sri Lankan batters struggled to score freely, they did manage to put together a few partnerships. However, the
Indian bowlers consistently broke these partnerships, preventing Sri Lanka from posting a formidable total. The series
is proving to be a valuable opportunity for India to fine-tune their bowling attack and identify the players who will be
crucial to their success in the T20 World Cup.