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'Lots Of Emotions But...': Mandhana Talks About India-Pakistan Rivalry Ahead Of Women's T20 WC

Mandhana in action vs Pakistan [Source: @ImTanujSingh/X.Com] Mandhana in action vs Pakistan [Source: @ImTanujSingh/X.Com]

The Women's T20 World Cup is just around the corner and the excitement has started to peak in as teams fight it out for the coveted trophy. One of the favourites of the tournament is the Indian team, led by a brilliant leader in Harmanpreet Kaur.

The side will fancy pitches in the UAE, and will look to break the jinx of their maiden ICC title. The India Women's team boasts a talented squad, and every player will have a specific role. However, like any other side, the India team also has that X-factor in the side, and her name is Smriti Mandhana.

The talented opener will be India's key to success in the upcoming tournament, and all eyes will be on her as India begin their campaign on Friday, October 4th. One of India's marquee match will be up against arch-rivals, Pakistan, and Mandhana, opened up about the rivalry. She talked about the preparations that take place ahead of such a big clash and the mindset both the teams have during the clash.

"I think the India-Pakistan rivalry is more about the emotions of the fans than anything else. It’s not like the players don’t talk to each other; it’s the emotions from both nations that make it so intense. For me, every World Cup match is special, and we put the same amount of effort into each game. But there’s definitely a lot of emotion attached to the India-Pakistan games.”

Mandhana has been on an excellent run in 2024

2024 has been a special year for Smriti Mandhana, across formats. She scored two ODI centuries in the series against South Africa, and then came back to haunt them with yet another century, this time in the one-off Test match.

Also, she was one of India's star performer in the Women's Asia Cup match, which India lost in the finals. Mandhana will be India's biggest bet, if they are to win the title this time around.

Mandhana and Team India need to cope with Dubai heat

This time of the year, Dubai feels really hot and the players will have a difficult time adjusting to the conditions.

Mandhana stated that they were somewhat used to the heat compared to other teams, but the first couple of days were really tiring. India start their campaign on Friday against New Zealand, followed by the big game against Pakistan on October 6.