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Explained: Why Is Harmanpreet Kaur Not Playing India Vs New Zealand 1st ODI?

Anurag Dasgupta

Harmanpreet Kaur to miss 1st ODI Vs NZ [Source: @BCCIWomen/x.com] Harmanpreet Kaur to miss 1st ODI Vs NZ [Source: @BCCIWomen/x.com]

After a disastrous T20 World Cup performance, the India Women's team are back in action, this time in the 50-over format as they take on New Zealand in a 3-match ODI series, starting from today. The first ODI takes place at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

The team failed to qualify for the semifinals of the World Cup, but now have a great chance to redeem themselves against the current T20 World Champions, New Zealand. The series provides them with a great chance to test their side before the 50-over World Cup, which taks place in 2025.

However, ahead of the 1st ODI, India have been jolted with an injury to their regular skipper, Harmanpreet Kaur. The captain of the team is a vital cog, but India will miss her services as she is suffering from a niggle and the team management are not taking any risk. Tejal Hasabnis and Saima Thakor are making their international debuts for India Women.

India eager to redeem themselves

The Harmanpreet Kaur led side were expected to reach the semis of the T20 World Cup, but they started the tournament on a wrong note, losing the match against the White Ferns by 58 runs. It was followed by two wins against Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

However, in a must-win encounter against Australia, Team India crumbled against pressure and lost a close-fought battle.

The next year's Women's World Cup will take place in India, and the home side will ideally like to use this series to redeem their lost pride and most importantly, give youngsters a chance to shine.