The Women’s Selection Committee has announced India’s squads for the upcoming multi-format series against South Africa, with Harmanpreet Kaur set to lead the team. This highly anticipated series will commence on June 16 and feature One-Day Internationals (ODIs), a Test match, and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is). Smriti Mandhana has been named vice-captain across all formats. The selection of key players Jemimah Rodrigues and Pooja Vastrakar is contingent on their recovery from injuries.
In the ODI squad, Harmanpreet Kaur, a seasoned leader, will captain a team that includes standout players like Shafali Verma, Deepti Sharma, and wicketkeepers Richa Ghosh and Uma Chetry. Jemimah Rodrigues and Pooja Vastrakar’s participation remains dependent on their fitness, reflecting the selectors’ cautious approach to managing player health. The ODIs will all be played at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, concluding on June 23.
For the one-off Test match, Harmanpreet will once again lead the side, with Smriti Mandhana as her deputy. This squad sees the inclusion of players like Sneh Rana and Rajeshwari Gayakwad, who bring depth in the bowling department, and pacers Renuka Singh Thakur and Meghna Singh, who will bolster the pace attack. The Test will be held at the historic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, offering a significant challenge and an opportunity for the team to showcase their skills in the longest format.
In the T20I series, the leadership remains consistent with Harmanpreet and Smriti at the helm. This squad features established players and emerging talents like Dayalan Hemalatha and Amanjot Kaur, aiming to balance experience and youthful energy.
Notably, Saika Ishaque, who is part of the ODI and Test squads, will be on standby for the T20Is, highlighting the strategic depth of the squad. The T20Is will also be hosted at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, rounding off the series with three high-intensity matches.
The series schedule begins with three ODIs in Bengaluru, followed by the Test and T20I series in Chennai. The tour will start with a preparatory match on June 13, allowing the teams to acclimatize and fine-tune their strategies. The series represents a critical period for the Indian Women’s Cricket Team as they seek to establish dominance against a formidable South African side.
With Harmanpreet Kaur leading the charge, India’s squad reflects a blend of seasoned campaigners and fresh talent, all poised to deliver impactful performances. The careful selection process, particularly concerning fitness and recovery, underscores the team management’s commitment to maintaining a competitive edge while ensuring player well-being. As fans eagerly anticipate the start of the series, the Indian Women’s Cricket Team is ready to take on South Africa in what promises to be an exciting and closely contested series.
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