After 16 matches across various formats since their victory in the Asian Games Women's Cricket Competition 2023, India Women are gearing up for their final series before the Women's Asia Cup 2024 and the subsequent ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2024. They will host South Africa Women in an all-format bilateral series comprising three ODIs, one Test match, and three T20Is, commencing from June 16, 2024.
Ahead of the first ODI in Bengaluru, India skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, expressed strong support for incorporating a points system into bilateral series, as quoted by Cricbuzz. She indicated that the ultimate decision rests with either the BCCI or the ICC. However, as a player, she emphasized that integrating the points system would enhance the competitive nature of the sport. She highlighted that players would be more motivated to perform at their best, thereby intensifying the level of competition.
"I think it's totally a BCCI or an ICC thing [to decide] but as a player, if these things are there, we are more into the game, you know, and we are more pumped up. If the points system is there, it'll be more challenging," stated Harmanpreet ahead of the first ODI against South Africa in Bengaluru, as quoted by Cricbuzz.
Also Read: Sydney Sixers Women secure services of Amelia Kerr on three-year-deal
Presently, the Women's Ashes employ a multi-format points allocation system, where six points are granted for triumphing in the Test match, two points for a draw, and another two points for securing victory in a limited-overs encounter. Initially implemented in 2013, this system has effectively maintained the relevance of each format within the series.
We take it as an opportunity: Harmanpreet
Regarding the challenge of transitioning their focus to the ODI format, Harmanpreet emphasized that she and her teammates viewed it as an opportunity. She noted that in recent times, their participation has been predominantly in T20 cricket, including the Women's Premier League. However, she highlighted that ODIs offered relatively more time to assess each player's skillset and adapt to the conditions, unlike T20Is. She expressed satisfaction that they'll have more opportunities to showcase their abilities on the field, especially considering their upcoming engagements across all three formats against South African women.
"We take it as an opportunity. Nowadays, we're playing more T20 games but ODIs are something that as a player, you have more time to access yourself and even the conditions. It's good for us that we are getting more matches to express ourselves. It's good for us that we're getting more time in the middle and getting to play all three formats," added Harmanpreet.
Also Read: Craig McMillan appointed as assistant coach of New Zealand Women's team
India Women have participated in merely six ODIs since September 2022, primarily due to the predominant focus on the 2023 T20 World Cup and the upcoming 2024 edition later this year. However, with the impending one-day World Cup on the horizon, the significance of the 50-over format is set to regain prominence.
Get every cricket updates! Follow Us:
