India's World Cup fate depends on the top-order: Mithali Raj


image-ldr8d9caMadhana will be a key at the top [Twitter]

Former India women's captain, Mithali Raj reckons that India's chances in the Women's T20 World Cup will depend largely upon the top-order.

Mithali stated that the Indian bowling unit will have to up their game under testing conditions in South Africa.

"India's chances will be largely dependent on the top order. Smriti Mandhana is playing well and is a match winner," Mithali wrote in her column for the ICC.

"Harmanpreet Kaur has looked in good form too but we have to beat Australia and England you need others batters to come to the party."

The Indian team recently finished as the runners-up in the tri-series, featuring South Africa and West Indies. They played well throughout the tournament, but faltered at the last hurdle.

Barring Shikha Pandey, India will be fielding an inexperienced bowling unit, and Mithali says the bowlers need to join the party soon.

"The bowling will be tested and that is where we need to see an improvement," Mithali added.

The 40-year-old stated that Australia women are the firm favourites for the tournament and will be gunning for a sixth World T20 title.

"I think everyone would agree that Australia are the favourites, and deservedly so. I am expecting, tight, competitive matches. They are so difficult to beat because they bat deep and have an excellent batting line-up."

She was also ecstatic talking about the Women's Premier League (WPL). Mithali said that WPL will change the fate of Indian cricket, and will help in the development of the players.

India kick-start their T20 World Cup campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on February 12. 


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