India women begin Tri-Series World Cup prep

Colombo

The India women’s cricket team is set to restart their World Cup preparations by playing in a tri-series against Sri Lanka and South Africa at the R Premadasa Stadium today (Sunday). With the Women’s ODI World Cup less than six months away, this series is an important step for all teams.

India is not only looking for wins but also answers, especially in bowling. Since the 2022 World Cup, India has used 33 players in ODIs, compared to Australia’s 17. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur, vice-captain Smriti Mandhana, Pratika Rawal, Harleen Deol, and Jemimah Rodrigues lead the batting.

Pratika, who scored 444 runs in six ODIs, has been given a big chance. Youngsters like Kashvee Gautam and Amanjot Kaur are set to strengthen India’s fast bowling. Kashvee impressed by taking 11 wickets in WPL 2025. Amanjot also made a mark and was the Emerging Player in WPL.

Injuries to Renuka Thakur, Titas Sadhu, and Pooja Vastrakar mean Arundhati Reddy will lead the pace attack. Among spinners, India is still searching for the right left-arm option. New faces N Shree Charani and Shuchi Upadhyay are part of the squad.

Finding a reliable sixth bowling option is also crucial, with Harmanpreet not bowling much recently.

Sri Lanka’s strong spin attack and South Africa’s rebuilding under new coach Mandla Mashimbyi will make the series competitive. Both teams will look to sharpen their squads ahead of the World Cup.

The tri-series offers India a perfect chance to fix weaknesses and build momentum before the big tournament at home.