Amol Muzumdar, a former domestic cricketer, experienced coach, and expert of the game, has shared his thoughts on the Indian Women’s team’s middle order issues, after the team secured a spot in the semi-finals of the ongoing ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2023 for the third consecutive time. The Women in Blue have performed well in the group stages, but their middle-order vulnerabilities were exposed in their game against England. In addition, India failed to take any wickets apart from the two early jolts against Ireland in their last group stage match. If it were not for Smriti Mandhana’s outstanding 87, the DLS method would not have favoured India by five runs, allowing them a top-two slot on the points table.
During a conversation with Star Sports, Muzumdar praised the positive attitude and approach of team India throughout the group stage, and congratulated them on their great achievement. He also lauded Mandhana for being the key to India’s ability to post daunting totals against opponents.
However, the former right-handed batter expressed concern about the Indian skipper, Harmanpreet Kaur. Although Kaur completed 3000 T20I runs during the match against Ireland, the 33-year-old has yet to demonstrate herself with the bat, and her mode of dismissal has made her extremely vulnerable, which worried Muzumdar.
“She played a wrong shot against the West Indies. She lost her patience against England. I wanted to see how Harmanpreet plays against Sophie Ecclestone and today also she got out in a similar fashion. She got out at the wrong time,” said Muzumdar.
With India set to face the top sides in world cricket, Muzumdar believes that Kaur needs to improve her shot selection and spend more time on the pitch. He added that Kaur has the experience and talent, and all she needs to do is give herself time.
“I believe Harmanpreet Kaur should take a little time. She needs to improve her shot selection, she has the experience. It doesn’t mean that she will perform as experience and performance are two different things. Along with experience, you also get responsibility on your shoulders,” he concluded.
