The Indian team is filled with a number of top-notch hitters and new all-format captain Harmanpreet Kaur says all will have the chance to show their worth in the T20 series against Sri Lanka, starting on Thursday. The stylish southpaw Smriti Mandhana, the explosive Shafali Verma, Sabbhineni Meghana and Yastika Bhatia are all top hitters in India’s 15-man squad. In Smriti’s absence, it was Shafali and Yastika who opened the batting against New Zealand in February.
“We have a lot of top hitters, including three to four, who can play as fly-half. But, as far as this team is concerned, everyone will have the opportunity to show their skills,” Harmanpreet told the day before the series- opener.
“We all represent our country and whatever opportunity may arise at any given time, we have to make the best use of it. We have many hitters who can play in any position. We will try to give everyone the space where they feel comfortable,” she added.
Harmanpreet also backed talented all-rounder Jemimah Rodrigues, who was not part of the last ODI World Cup squad but has now returned to the side for the series against Sri Lanka.
“Jemimah is really an experienced player. She will definitely play a crucial role in the T20 series,” Harmanpreet said.
The skipper admitted that while it is not possible to give everyone an equal chance all the time, it is her responsibility to talk to everyone to find the perfect team combination for the big tournaments.
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“I will make sure everyone has enough chances to prepare. If you look at Jemimah’s case, she always takes every opportunity that comes her way. Also, it’s very important to keep talking to others players and finding the right combination for big prize events like the Commonwealth Games,” she remarked.
It is unclear if the series would be broadcast live. However, as it stands, the first match will be streamed live on Sri Lanka Cricket’s official YouTube channel.
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