The Mumbai Indians captain Harmanpreet Kaur has opened up on the preparations for the upcoming WPL 2024 which is set to start on Wednesday.
Harmanpreet Kaur on preparations for WPL 2024
The second edition of the WPL 2024 is set to begin in February 2024. Mumbai Indians are the winners of the WPL 2023.
Mumbai Indians remain confident for the upcoming league with an elite squad consisting of high-class all-rounders. With all the teams preparing for the tournament, MI Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, head coach Charlotte Edwards, and bowling coach Jhulan Goswami insisted on focusing on the basics.
While speaking on Friday, Harmanpreet said, “Last year, we kept things simple and we’ll look to do the same this year as well,” said Harmanpreet.
“All the players have clarity about their roles. We don’t put pressure on ourselves that we have to win the title at any cost. I know, everyone’s eyes will be on us since we did well last year.”
“When you set a benchmark, there are bound to be expectations. But all we can do as players is give our best. We will try to enjoy the game, there will be different venues and other teams could get more support than us. For us, it’s about staying in the present.”
Shabnim Ismail, Sajana, Amandeep Kaur, Keerthana Balakrishnan and Fatima Jaffer has been added to the Mumbai Indians squad during the WPL 2024 auction through which the side has more balanced squad in the season.
“We’ve roped in some exciting domestic players,” said the 34-year-old.
“Be it Bengaluru or Delhi, we have players who can get the job done on any track. We have all bases covered in terms of bowling and that’s the most important thing. We’re quite confident about our squad and look forward to preparing well over the coming days.”
Natalie Sciver-Brunt and Hayley Matthews are the star performers of MI during the last season.
“They’re two wonderful all-rounders who have dominated the world game over the last 12 months,” said former England captain Edwards.
“We’re really lucky to have them in our squad. I’ve played with Nat and then watched her grow as a player over the years. It’s been incredible to see her success as she’s won the ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year award in consecutive years.”
“And Hayley was, without a doubt, our standout player last year. So yeah, looking for more of the same from them this time.”
Shabnim Ismail’s arrival adds up advantage to the squad. “She’s a champion bowler who has excelled in international cricket,” said Jhulan.
“She’s done so well for South African cricket, is one of the fastest bowlers in the women’s game and a real fighter. She wants to contribute each and every time. We’re lucky to have her in our squad.”
“If they do well here, it means they’re ready for international cricket,” said the MI and India captain.
“It shows that you’ve played at a good level and can handle pressure. If we see some good performances in the WPL, we could give them a chance at the World Cup. I’m sure all the players will be itching to do well,” concluded Harmanpreet Kaur.
Fans can watch their favorite match in jiocinema for free in India. we also created a separate article under the WPL 2024 live-streaming title with broadcasting details for the rest of the world.
As per WPL 2024 schedule the first match will be played between Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals on February 23 at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
