‘Want to play freely and keep things simple’ - Harmanpreet Kaur ahead of marquee clash against Australia

India’s game against Australia in the ongoing Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 can decide their fate in the competition. The Alyssa Healy-led side is still undefeated and is the favourite against India but the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side will fancy their chances to cause an upset to make it to the semi-finals. However, if they lose, they will look forward to Pakistan’s game against New Zealand, and if the White Ferns suffer a defeat in that game, the net run rate will come into the picture.

Currently, India have a better NRR than New Zealand and courtesy of the same, they are second on the points table. Meanwhile, ahead of their biggest challenge against Australia, captain Harmanpreet noted that the game holds massive importance and the players will arrive at the stadium with a strong mindset. She reminded the importance of playing the game with a free mind and that she wants to keep things simple in the high-voltage clash.

“It's a very important game for us, (there are a) lot of things we have to keep in mind and play and definitely going there you need a strong mindset. At the same time, we just want to go there and play freely and enjoy our game. And after us, when New Zealand and Pakistan are playing, those things are not in our hands. We don't even want to discuss those things. We just want to keep things simple and just focus on tomorrow's game,” Harmanpreet was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au.

Also Read - 'We have the NRR in our minds' - Shafali Verma addresses elephant in room ahead of crucial Australia assignment

Meanwhile, captain Healy and pacer Tayla Vlaeminck may miss the game against Australia and both are currently recovering from their respective injuries.

Hopefully, I’ve got the upper hand against Smriti Mandhana: Ashleigh Gardner

Australia all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner is in remarkable form right now, picking up a four-wicket haul in the last game against Pakistan. She expects a tougher challenge against India in the next game and is looking forward to the battle against star India opener Smriti Mandhana in the powerplay.

Also Read - India Women vs Australia Women Match Prediction 

“I know I'm going to be challenged, I'm going to have to bowl two overs probably in the Powerplay against someone like Smriti Mandana, so the challenge is always there. I relish those environments, so hopefully, I’ve got the upper hand against her,” Gardner said.