How big a miss will be Smriti Mandhana for the T20 World Cup opener

image-ldyfaxebMandhana is likely to miss game against Pakistan [Twitter]

In a 'big blow' to India's T20 World Cup hopes, star batter, Smriti Mandhana is doubtful for tournament opener against arch-rivals Pakistan women.

Mandhana, who is currently with the Indian side in South Africa, fractured the middle finger of her left hand, while fielding against Australia in the warm-up game on Monday.

Despite getting injured, she came out to bat, but missed out on the second warm-up game against Bangladesh women.

Mandhana is arguably India's best batter across formats, and Team India will surely miss her services at the top. There are three key things to keep in mind.

Stability at the top

One of the best batters in the modern era, Mandhana provides stability at the top of the order. She brings a different dynamism to the table which no one else can provide. As talented as Shafali Verma is, she can be a hot-headed customer, and tends to throw her wicket away after a good start. 

In a high-octane match, such as against Pakistan women on February 12, India would have loved to have Mandhana, who loves the big stage and big oppositions.

Left-right combo

Anyone who watches cricket knows the value of a left-right combination. It distracts the opposition bowlers and the captain as it becomes difficult to concentrate on a particular line and length.

With Shafali a right-handed batter, Mandhana's left-handed prowess would have been a perfect combo for the Indian side. In her absence, India might be tempted to play Sabbineni Meghana at the top, or even Jemimah Rodrigues, but Mandhana's presence brings something different on the table.

Experienced player

In a tournament such as a World Cup, having experience is always a blessing. If reports are to be believed, skipper Harmanpreet Kaur is also nursing an injury, and India could be in trouble if both the batters miss out against Pakistan.

She has already been a part of multiple World Cups, and knows how to perform at the big stage. The onus will be shifted on the young shoulders of Shafali, S Meghana, if Mandhana sits out of the tournament opener.