Harmanpreet Kaur: We're a side that can put pressure on any team

Often it’s the belief that matters and Harmanpreet Kaur, India’s T20I captain believes that theirs is the side that can put any opposition under pressure.

“The nerves do start to kick in because we are very excited about that opening game and we’re looking positive in that,” said Kaur in Sydney on Wednesday (February 19).

“We are a side that can put pressure on any team, we just look to stay in the right mindset and play in the way we can because that is our biggest strength. In sport, sometimes you are in good form and others you are not. I know that everyone playing in this tournament will look to be positive, and that is good for our team.”

There was a lot of talk about India’s squad for the Women’s T20 World Cup bearing a spin-heavy look. Kaur had stressed that spinners have bought them wickets and that they expected the tracks Down Under would be tired. The first look at the Sydney Showground track seemed to have pleased Kaur.

“If the Sydney Showground is on the slower side, it will suit us, and it looks that way currently. We are looking good in that,” said Kaur, who has played for Sydney Thunder in the Women’s Big Bash League.

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While there’s a lot written about Indian cricket and the support of the fans it gets, a home World Cup is a dream that most who take to sport have.

“We all know that everyone in India loves cricket,” stated Kaur, before adding, “Wherever we go we always have our fans out there supporting and we are looking forward to that again.”

With Australia being the hosts, Annabel Sutherland’s selection has given her a chance to live the dream.

“I’m absolutely pumped, we’re all really excited to get going in what’s a big and really important game against India,” said the teenager, who made her international debut in the recently-concluded tri-series.

“I’m loving this experience. I didn’t expect it at all so I’m just looking to enjoy it as much as I can and embrace everything that comes with it. It’s an honour to be part of this team, one that has had success over the years, and I’ve been welcomed in with open arms which has been lovely. With people such as Meg Lanning and Ellyse Perry, you can’t help but be impressed by the outstanding things that they’ve done over the years. Many, many young girls across the country and internationally look up to those two and a lot of people in this World Cup so it’s a privilege to play alongside them.”