'India are front-runners but don't underestimate Australia' - Jess Jonassen picks contenders for Women's T20 World Cup 2024

Australian spin-bowling all-rounder Jess Jonassen picked India as the favourites to go the distance in the Women's T20 World Cup 2024 next month. However, she said that the defending champions, Australia, shouldn't be overlooked because they have the ability to up the ante in marquee tournaments.

Jonassen, who missed out on bagging a spot in Australia's side for the 10-team competition, said that the depth and versatility in the Indian squad make them the favourites to lift the title. She also acknowledged that the Women in Blue have good knowledge of the conditions in the UAE. It is important to note that India have never won the Women's T20 World Cup since its inception in 2009.

Their best result is a run to the finals in 2020. Meanwhile, Australia are the most successful team in the history of the competition. Notably, they have won the silverware on seven occasions.

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"India are well and truly the front-runner because of the depth and versatility that they have. They have better knowledge of UAE conditions. We have never played there, but Australia know how to play in big tournaments and can't be underestimated," Jonassen said during ABC International Development's five-day cricket commentary and mojo program at the Australian High Commission.

We've been under illusion that pool we are in is not one of toughest: Jonassen

Jess Jonassen pointed out that Australia has limited knowledge about the conditions in the UAE. The 31-year-old also said that Australia shouldn't be under the illusion that they are in an easy group in the tournament. Alyssa Healy and Co. are placed in Group A alongside India, New Zealand, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.

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"We have played in different sub-continent pitches and conditions, but have little knowledge about UAE conditions, so it be challenging. We've been under another illusion that the pool that we are in is not one of the toughest. But I don't think there's going to be a single easy game," Jonassen added.

Ten teams have been divided into two groups of five. The top two teams from each group at the end of the round-robin stage will progress through to the finals. Australia will begin their campaign against Sri Lanka, on October 5, in Sharjah. Meanwhile, India will be in action against New Zealand, on October 4, in Dubai.