Harmanpreet Kaur has been retained as the captain of the Indian women’s cricket team for the upcoming One Day International (ODI) series against New Zealand, set to take place in Ahmedabad later this month.
The squad, announced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), will feature a 16-member team for the three-match series scheduled for October 24, 27, and 29.
Harmanpreet’s retention comes despite scrutiny surrounding her captaincy following India’s disappointing exit in the group stage of the recent T20 World Cup held in the UAE.
The team’s early defeat to New Zealand was particularly criticized, leading to questions about future leadership. Nonetheless, the selectors have shown confidence in her ability to lead the team through this ODI series.
Notably, wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh will miss the series as she is scheduled to sit for her class 12 board exams.
Richa has been a vital player for India, and her absence will be felt. The team will need to adjust its strategy without her contributions behind the stumps and with the bat.
The squad includes a mix of experienced players and emerging talents, aiming to build momentum ahead of future international commitments.
The BCCI’s decision to retain Harmanpreet as captain indicates a focus on stability and experience as they prepare for a challenging series against New Zealand.
The ODI series against New Zealand will be crucial for India as they seek to regain form and confidence after recent setbacks.
India women’s squad for ODI series against New Zealand
Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Smriti Mandhana (VC), Shafali Verma, Dayalan Hemalatha, Deepti Sharma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Yastika Bhatia (wk), Uma Chetry (wk), Sayali Satgare, Arundhati Reddy, Renuka Singh Thakur, Tejal Hasabnis, Saima Thakor, Priya Mishra, Radha Yadav, Shreyanka Patil.
IND vs NZ ODI Series: Full Schedule
1st ODI – October 24, Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad
2nd ODI – October 27, Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad
3rd ODI – October 29, Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad
