The countdown to the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup has begun, and Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur has already set her sights on a bold, inspiring goal — taking India past the global benchmark and positioning the team as a top contender. With a clear focus on building a world-class unit, Harmanpreet has emerged not just as a captain, but as a visionary leader who understands the immense potential of Indian women’s cricket.
In a recent media interaction, Harmanpreet laid out the roadmap to success and what it would take for India to bring home its first ever Women’s ODI World Cup trophy. Let’s dive deeper into her plans, the team’s current status, past performance, and what this benchmark really means.
Rising From the Past: The 2017 & 2022 Memories
The Indian women’s team has come heartbreakingly close to lifting the ODI World Cup in the past. The 2017 final at Lord’s against England is still fresh in every cricket fan’s mind. India was just 9 runs away from creating history. Again in 2022, expectations were high, but the team could not convert potential into results.
These near-misses have strengthened the team’s resolve. Harmanpreet, who played a historic 171* in the 2017 semi-final, now wants to convert those “almost” moments into victories.
What Does ‘Benchmark’ Mean?
When Harmanpreet Kaur talks about “passing the benchmark,” she is referring to a set of global standards — in terms of fitness, consistency, fielding, bench strength, and match temperament — usually seen in teams like Australia and England. These teams have excelled by consistently rotating their squads, maintaining fitness regimes, and investing in grassroots cricket.
India is now taking those cues seriously.
Team India’s Preparations
1. Increased International Exposure
BCCI has made commendable efforts in providing the women’s team with more bilateral series, including matches against top teams like Australia, England, and South Africa. These matches not only offer experience but also test India’s combinations.
2. Focus on Fitness and Fielding
One of the key takeaways from past World Cups has been the need for superior fitness and sharp fielding. Under the guidance of the coaching staff, Indian women cricketers are now undergoing high-intensity fitness drills. This has already improved running between wickets and outfield performance.
3. Youth Power and Experience
India’s current squad boasts a great mix. Young stars like Shafali Verma, Richa Ghosh, and Jemimah Rodrigues are gaining maturity, while veterans like Smriti Mandhana, Deepti Sharma, and Harmanpreet herself offer experience and calm under pressure.
4. Women’s Premier League (WPL) Boost
The WPL, launched in 2023, has played a massive role in building bench strength. It has brought forward new faces and allowed players to rub shoulders with international stars. Harmanpreet believes the WPL is one of the main reasons India can now dream bigger.
Challenges That Lie Ahead
While the ambition is strong, several hurdles must be crossed:
- Inconsistency in Middle Order: There have been collapses that hurt India in crunch moments. Building a solid, reliable middle order is a must.
- Pace Bowling Attack: India still lacks a strike pacer who can break partnerships regularly.
- Handling Pressure: In key knockout games, the team tends to buckle under pressure. Mental toughness needs work.
What Makes Harmanpreet a Special Leader
Harmanpreet is not only a gifted batter but also a courageous leader. Her calm demeanor and ability to back young players has created a culture of trust in the dressing room. Known for leading from the front, she often absorbs pressure in crucial games.
Off the field, she is working closely with the coaching staff to build a long-term roadmap — keeping the 2025 World Cup as the ultimate target.
Fans and Experts Weigh In
Cricket experts like Anjum Chopra and Lisa Sthalekar have applauded Harmanpreet’s leadership. Social media is buzzing with support for the women’s team, especially after recent close matches against Australia.
Fans now believe that this is the team that can rewrite Indian women’s cricket history.
What To Expect In the 2025 ODI World Cup
The 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup is set to be hosted in India. This gives the team a massive home advantage, along with fan support and familiar pitch conditions. Harmanpreet sees this as a golden opportunity.
Here’s what we can expect if things go to plan:
- Better batting depth
- Seam and spin combination with variety
- Sharp fielding setups
- Cool and strategic captaincy
Conclusion
Harmanpreet Kaur’s statement that India is aiming to “pass the benchmark” isn’t just motivational jargon. It signals a massive shift in mindset, preparation, and ambition. With proper planning, tactical leadership, and full support from BCCI and fans, the Indian women’s cricket team is well on its way to becoming a dominant global force.
The road to the 2025 ODI World Cup is long but promising. With Harmanpreet at the helm, Indian cricket lovers are hoping — and believing — that the dream of lifting the World Cup will finally become a reality.