Brisbane: India’s head coach, Amol Muzumdar, attributed the team’s disappointing start in the Women’s ODI series against Australia to a lack of application by the batters. In the opening match on Thursday, India managed only 100 runs before being bowled out in 34.2 overs, leading to a five-wicket defeat. Australia, under the leadership of new captain Tahlia McGrath, chased down the target in just 16.2 overs.
Batting Woes Highlighted
Expressing his disappointment in the post-match press conference, Muzumdar emphasized the need for better batting performances.
“Definitely, I am disappointed because we were expecting more runs. It wasn’t the easiest wicket, as Australia also lost a few wickets chasing 100. If we had applied ourselves better with the bat, the result might have been different. Cricket is unpredictable, and even a few more runs could have made a big difference,” he said.
Bowling Positives Shine Through
Despite the loss, Muzumdar praised the efforts of the bowlers, particularly Renuka Thakur and Priya Mishra. Thakur’s ninth-over strikes, which removed key players Ellyse Perry and Beth Mooney, briefly unsettled the Australian lineup. Leg-spinner Priya Mishra, playing her second international series, also impressed with two wickets.
“The bowlers, especially the younger ones, did a fantastic job. Priya was excellent today, building on her strong performances against New Zealand. This is a positive sign for Indian cricket,” Muzumdar noted.
Challenges in Preparation
The coach acknowledged the limited preparation time the team had before the series, citing the players’ participation in domestic tournaments and the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL).
“After the New Zealand series, several players participated in two domestic T20 tournaments, while some were in Australia for the WBBL. As a squad, we didn’t get much time together. We had two outdoor sessions here, but one was washed out due to rain. Nevertheless, the team was fully geared up for the series,” Muzumdar explained.
Focus on World Cup Preparations
Looking ahead to the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in India next year, Muzumdar stressed the importance of these bilateral series in finalizing the team’s lineup.
“We are using these series to test young players and stabilize the batting and bowling combinations ahead of the World Cup. For instance, Titas made her debut today, and Harleen Deol returned after a long injury layoff,” he said.
Injury Concerns and Support Staff Contributions
Muzumdar confirmed that all-rounder Puja Vastrakar was unavailable for the series due to injury and is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA).
He also highlighted the significant role of the coaching staff and the NCA in the team’s preparation.
“I’m very pleased with the support staff. The NCA plays a crucial role in ensuring players are ready for international matches. Having Avishkar Salvi as the bowling coach has been immensely beneficial, and Troy Cooley’s expertise adds great value,” he concluded.
Looking Forward
With two matches remaining in the series, India will aim to bounce back and address their batting concerns as they continue to fine-tune their squad for the World Cup.
