Indore (Madhya Pradesh) [India], June 10 (ANI): Indian cricketer Pooja Vastrakar has urged the Women in Blue to build on their successful 2025 ODI World Cup campaign as they prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to be held in England from June 12 to July 5.
India's Historic ODI World Cup Victory
Under the captaincy of Harmanpreet Kaur, India secured their first-ever World Cup title in 2025, triumphing on home soil. Vastrakar, who is not part of the squad for the Women's T20 World Cup in England, is currently featuring in the Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) Scindia Cup, where she leads the Chambal Ghariyals.
Message for the Team
Speaking to ANI, Vastrakar emphasized the importance of carrying forward the momentum from the ODI World Cup. She stated, "They did very well in the ODI World Cup, so my message would be to just continue that in the T20 World Cup as well." She further noted that the team possesses multiple experienced and key players rather than relying on a few individuals. "There isn't just one or two players; I think many players are key players and are experienced, and it will be fun to watch everyone. Anyone among them who handles the pressure will be the hero of this World Cup," she added.
Top Contenders for the Title
Vastrakar identified six-time champions Australia and inaugural T20 World Cup winners England as strong contenders for the 2026 edition. She acknowledged Australia's long-standing dominance in women's cricket and noted that England could benefit from playing in home conditions. "Australia is there because they have been dominating for a long time, and England might get the advantage of home conditions," she said.
Vastrakar's MPL Journey
Vastrakar is leading the Chambal Ghariyals in the MPL and has guided them to the final, which will be played on June 13 at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore.
India's T20 World Cup Squad
The Women in Blue will be led by Harmanpreet Kaur in the T20 World Cup 2026. The squad includes: Harmanpreet Kaur (captain), Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Bharti Fulmali, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh, Shree Charani, Yastika Bhatia, Nandani Sharma, Arundhati Reddy, Renuka Singh, Kranti Gaud, Shreyanka Patil, and Radha Yadav.
