Aakash Chopra believes that Harmanpreet Kaur may be feeling the pressure in the current World Cup, considering it could potentially be her final appearance in the tournament. The 36-year-old Indian skipper has had a slow start to the competition, managing only 40 runs in two games.
Despite making promising beginnings, Harmanpreet has struggled to capitalize on them and convert them into substantial scores, reflecting the lackluster performance of the Indian batting lineup in the tournament. Chopra, speaking to Star Sports following the victory over Pakistan, mentioned that the captaincy role adds to the pressure on Harmanpreet.
“There will definitely be pressure. Being the captain in her fifth World Cup, the first as a leader, she might be contemplating that this could be her last appearance as well. It’s improbable that she will feature in the next ODI World Cup. So, the pressure is mounting,” said Chopra.
The former cricketer also highlighted that Harmanpreet’s recent struggles could impact the team’s prospects negatively.
“If other players are also getting good starts but failing to convert them into significant scores, despite public reassurances, internally, the need for personal contributions is felt. When a team’s leader fails to perform, it weakens the team. The captain must step up. She is likely feeling the pressure,” Chopra elaborated.
In the current year, Harmanpreet has amassed 386 runs in 13 matches at an average of 35.09.
Chopra addressed India’s lack of a sixth bowler, attributing it to the underperformance of the top-order batsmen thus far.
“Looking at the bigger picture, if Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur start scoring runs, then the option of a sixth bowler becomes viable. At present, the team desires an additional bowler, but with no standout individual performances, concerns arise about batting depth over 50 overs. However, when key players deliver, the team gains confidence to include an extra bowler, eliminating the need for Richa Ghosh at number 8. This shift in strategy could occur once Kaur and Mandhana find their form,” noted Chopra.
India’s next match in the Women’s World Cup is scheduled for October 9 against South Africa.