India captain Harmanpreet Kaur emphasized that her team's sole focus is on cricket as they prepare for the Women's T20 World Cup Group 1 match against Pakistan at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Sunday. She stated that all team discussions revolve around the game, not external factors.
Background of Tensions
The match comes amid recent instances where Indian teams have avoided handshakes with Pakistani players. At last year's ODI World Cup, Harmanpreet and Pakistan captain Fatima Sana did not shake hands during the toss. This practice, initiated by the men's team during the Asia Cup last year, has been followed by all Indian teams in subsequent tournaments, including the Women's World Cup, U19 World Cup, Rising Stars Asia Cup, and Men's T20 World Cup.
Harmanpreet's Statement
Speaking to reporters on the eve of the match, Harmanpreet said, "I think we are here for cricket, and we only talk about cricket, except that we don't talk about anything, and I don't even talk about anything except cricket. Cricket has been our dream from day one, and we only discuss cricket and tomorrow's game, we are only thinking about it. It's another game which we are going to play."
Pressure of Pakistan Matches
The India skipper acknowledged the added pressure of facing Pakistan but emphasized the importance of handling it. "Definitely, pressure is going to be there. Whenever we play against Pakistan, pressure is going to be there. But at the same time, it's only about how we are going to enjoy that pressure. Because in any international game, pressure is going to be there. It's only about just giving you 100% on that game and enjoying every moment," she added.
India's T20 World Cup History
India enters the tournament after ending their ICC title drought by winning the ODI World Cup last year. They now aim to add the Women's T20 World Cup trophy. The Women in Blue have reached the T20 World Cup semi-finals five times and played one final but have yet to win the tournament.
