There can be some pressure while playing at home, especially when starting as one of the favourites. But Harmanpreet Kaur said the Indian team is feeling excited, and isn’t not under pressure, on the eve of the World Cup opener against Sri Lanka.

“The World Cup is returning to India after 12 years, but there is no pressure at all for us,” the Indian captain said. “We are feeling really well, and in the practice matches, we tried to tick all the boxes. We are excited that we are getting the opportunity to play in home conditions. As cricketers, we cannot ask for anything more.”

She said the team was looking forward to some strong support from the spectators during the World Cup. “Whenever we play in India, fans have come out to watch us and cheer us,” she said. “Even when we played outside the country, they have supported us. I hope this World Cup will be special for us players and the fans. We will try to create special memories.”

Harmanpreet said the team was shaping up well. “We played more ODIs after the last T20I World Cup,” she said. “And we have won most of our matches, and that has given a lot of confidence to do well in ODI cricket. This group has a lot of experience playing together.”

Sri Lankan captain Chamari Athapaththu is also looking forward to playing most of the side’s matches at home. She admitted India is a strong contender. “But we are ready for the first game,” she said. “Since the tournament is being held in India, they will naturally be strong contenders, but we are equally determined to give our best.

“As co-hosts this time, we want to play our finest cricket. And I really want an Asian team to win this World Cup (for the first time).”

Published on Sep 29, 2025