In a notable start to the three-match Women’s ODI series against New Zealand , India’s regular skipper Harmanpreet Kaur is sidelined , leading to vice-captain Smriti Mandhana stepping up as captain. The 1st ODI is taking place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Thursday (October 24), with both teams looking to kick off the series positively. This series is crucial for both teams, particularly New Zealand, as they seek valuable points in the ICC Women’s Championship.
Reason behind Harmanpreet Kaur’s absence
With Harmanpreet resting due to a niggle, Mandhana has taken charge as captain for the 1st ODI against New Zealand. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), on X, confirmed Kaur’s non-participation, emphasizing the need for her to recover fully before returning to the field.
“Ms Harmanpreet Kaur has a niggle and has been rested for the 1st ODI. Smriti Mandhana will be leading the side in her absence,” the post reads.
Note – Ms Harmanpreet Kaur has a niggle and has been rested for the 1st ODI. Smriti Mandhana will be leading the side in her absence.#INDvNZ @IDFCFIRSTBank
— BCCI Women (@BCCIWomen) October 24, 2024
Kaur’s absence is a notable change for the team, particularly after she led India in the recent T20 World Cup 2024, where they faced challenges in the group stages. Mandhana’s leadership will be critical as India looks to set the tone for the series, focusing on building a solid performance in the absence of their seasoned captain.
Also READ: IND-W vs NZ-W 2024, ODI series: Date, Match Time, Squads, Broadcast & Live Streaming details | India vs New Zealand
Team’s composition: India and New Zealand
As India opted to bat first after winning the toss, the focus will be on building a strong innings, especially with the batting order adjusting to Kaur’s absence. D Hemalatha has been moved to No. 4, while Yastika Bhatia takes the wicketkeeping gloves, batting one-down. India have further introduced new talent by handing ODI caps to Tejal Hasabnis and Saima Thakor. Hasabnis, a middle-order batter from Maharashtra, and Thakor, a seam bowling all-rounder, represent a shift in strategy as the team aims to blend experience with fresh talent in this important series.
New Zealand, meanwhile, features a lineup similar to their successful T20 World Cup campaign, albeit with some adjustments. Lauren Down, returning from maternity leave, bolsters the lower middle order, while tall fast bowler Molly Penfold joins the attack. Notably, experienced bowler Lea Tahuhu has been rested, indicating New Zealand’s strategic choices in the series.
