Former India cricketer Anjum Chopra has come out in strong support of Harmanpreet Kaur, stating she remains the undisputed best choice to captain the Indian women's cricket team. This endorsement comes at a time when discussions about leadership have resurfaced following India's recent World Cup triumph and ahead of a packed international schedule.
Leadership Debate Dismissed, Focus on Momentum Urged
With the Indian women's team set to return to action in a five-match T20 series against Sri Lanka, Chopra believes the narrative should be about sustaining the winning rhythm, not speculating about a change at the helm. "My personal view over the past so many years has been that Harmanpreet Kaur is a match winner. I don't think I need to say anything further," Chopra stated in an interview. She emphatically added, "She's the best person to lead this Indian team."
Chopra addressed recent suggestions from another former captain, Shantha Rangaswamy, who had floated the idea of a leadership change. She respectfully noted that while everyone is entitled to their opinion, the timing of such talks is questionable. "Everybody has their right to share what they feel… There's nothing right or wrong. It's just the timing of it," Chopra remarked, reiterating her firm belief that Kaur is the "correct and the apt person" for the role.
Crucial Sri Lanka Series and the Power Game Evolution
Looking ahead to the contest against Sri Lanka, starting soon after the World Cup celebrations, Chopra highlighted the importance of a quick shift in focus. "The quicker they get back into playing… everybody wants to continue that winning momentum," she said, emphasizing that the team must pick up from where they left off. She pointed out that this T20 series is vital preparation for the next ICC Women's T20 World Cup.
The conversation also turned to the evolving nature of power-hitting in the women's game, often compared to giants like Australia and New Zealand. Chopra acknowledged that while players like Harmanpreet Kaur and Richa Ghosh possess natural power, it is a skill that can be cultivated. "Power is something that you can always gain. And there are techniques, there is proper training to it," she explained.
She credited the Indian team's ability to chase big scores as evidence of their improvement in this department and singled out the Women's Premier League (WPL) as a major catalyst. "Tournaments like the WPL, where international players rub shoulders with our domestic players… that awareness will keep happening," Chopra said, underlining the league's role in accelerating the growth of power cricket in India.
Sustaining Success the Primary Goal
In conclusion, Anjum Chopra's message is clear: the foundation built by Harmanpreet Kaur's leadership is solid. The immediate priority for the Indian women's cricket team is to channel all energy into the upcoming fixtures, using the Sri Lanka series as a springboard to maintain their world-beating form. With the WPL also on the horizon, the focus remains firmly on collective growth and continuing the successful trajectory under the current captain.
