By Prarthana Hazarika
Guwahati, June 27: As India prepare for a crucial Women’s T20 World Cup clash against Australia, former India cricketer Gargi Banerjee said the defending champions remain favourites on paper, but believes the Indian side has the quality and composure to secure a significant victory if it executes its plans effectively.
Australia have historically dominated the rivalry, winning 26 of the 35 T20 Internationals between the two sides. Even so, Banerjee said India’s recent performances indicate that the gap between the teams is narrowing.
“Australia have consistently had the edge because they have maintained a strong core, quality all-rounders and tremendous depth in every department. But India have shown in recent years that they can challenge them,” Banerjee told The Meghalaya Express.
She cited India’s historic 2-1 T20I series win in Australia, highlighted by Smriti Mandhana’s superb 82 off 55 balls in Adelaide, as evidence that the Australians are no longer invincible.
“India have always produced exceptional talent. Whether it is against Australia, England or New Zealand, our players have shown they can perform under pressure,” she said.
Banerjee, however, said India’s pace bowling remains a concern following the retirement of pace spearhead Jhulan Goswami.
“Technically, India have always produced quality spinners and all-rounders, but after Jhulan’s retirement we are yet to completely fill that void. We need to be very careful about our pace attack against Australia,” she observed.
While she stopped short of ruling India out, Banerjee acknowledged that Australia possess the stronger overall squad.
“The Australian team combination is extremely balanced, with world-class all-rounders. Their tactical understanding of T20 cricket is exceptional. I would rate India’s chances at around 40 per cent because Australia’s pace attack gives them an advantage.”
According to Banerjee, India’s prospects will depend heavily on experienced batters Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Harmanpreet Kaur, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh and Charani, while Australia have match-winners across both batting and bowling departments.
She identified Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur as the two players most likely to shape India’s fortunes.
“If they perform, India can put Australia under pressure.”
Banerjee also suggested a change in India’s playing XI.
“I don’t think India should take the risk of continuing with Yastika Bhatia. I would like to see Kranti Gaur come into the side. However, the batting order should remain unchanged.”
She stressed that India’s fielding could ultimately determine the outcome.
“Fielding will be the biggest factor. The toss is not in anyone’s control, but India cannot afford to lose rhythm in batting, bowling or fielding during any phase of the game.”
When asked about Australia’s biggest vulnerability, Banerjee said India should focus on capitalising on opportunities rather than attempting to dominate from the outset.
“T20 cricket is unpredictable. India should play smart cricket, maintain discipline and seize the key moments.”
Despite acknowledging the pressure surrounding the knockout contest, Banerjee said the team must embrace the occasion rather than be intimidated by it.
“We will be under pressure because we have to win this match. But pressure is part of big tournaments.”
Her message to the Indian dressing room was simple.
“Enjoy the game of cricket. Challenge every situation, trust one another and have faith in each other. If you do that, the result will take care of itself.”
