Smriti Mandhana Confident in India Women’s “Balanced Squad” Ahead of Ireland ODI Series

India Women’s Skipper Highlights Opportunities for Young Players and Emphasizes a Positive Approach Against Ireland

Rajkot (Gujarat), January 10: Ahead of their first ODI against Ireland, India Women’s skipper Smriti Mandhana expressed confidence in her team, describing it as a “balanced squad” ready to deliver in the three-match series. The matches are scheduled for January 10, 12, and 15 in Rajkot.

Opportunities for Young Players

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Mandhana highlighted the team’s focus on providing opportunities for young players in the squad while refusing to reveal the playing XI for the opening match.
“Tomorrow, whoever gets that opportunity, takes it. [So that] We have more match winners for India. It’s an opportunity for two of the other young girls. Playing for your country is always a moment of pride, and I’m sure all the girls take pride in it,” Mandhana said.

Positive Mindset and Squad Strength

The skipper emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and praised the squad’s balance, expressing satisfaction with the team’s preparations. She also acknowledged Shafali Verma’s recent domestic performances, noting that her runs have positioned her well within the team’s plans.
“We do not have to think about what is not there. We want to go out there with a positive mindset because we have a really balanced squad. The girls who have come in are really, really good,” Mandhana added.

Focus on “Good Cricket” Against Ireland

Mandhana set the tone for the series, stating that the team’s primary focus is on playing “good cricket” and making the most of their opportunities.
“We will not think about what is missing. Our focus is on going out there and performing well in tomorrow’s match,” she concluded.

India’s Squad for the ODI Series Against Ireland

• Smriti Mandhana (C)
• Deepti Sharma (VC)
• Pratika Rawal
• Harleen Deol
• Jemimah Rodrigues
• Uma Chetry (wk)
• Richa Ghosh (wk)
• Tejal Hasabnis
• Raghvi Bist
• Minnu Mani
• Priya Mishra
• Tanuja Kanwer
• Titas Sadhu
• Saima Thakor
• Sayali Satghare

The Women in Blue are set to face Ireland with a mix of seasoned players and rising stars, promising an exciting series to kickstart their international campaign.