Smriti Mandhana believes the chasm between India and Australia has significantly narrowed as the two sides prepare for a high-stakes Women's T20 World Cup 2026 clash at Lord's on Sunday. With semifinal berths on the line, India will enter the match knowing exactly what is required, though their equation will depend on the outcome of South Africa's earlier game against Bangladesh at the same venue.

Currently, Australia is at the top of Group A with eight points, while India and South Africa trail by two. Mandhana's side holds the edge over the Proteas on net run rate, and the opener is ready to lead from the front.

"I feel the gap has definitely narrowed, with a few of our players featuring in the Big Bash and theirs playing in the WPL, the experience has been shared," Mandhana said. "The cricket India has played over the last four or five years has been a steady build-up. Now, especially in T20s, it's about which team has a good day. We've spoken a lot about playing an aggressive brand, and that's what we'll aim to do."

India defeated Australia 2-1 in a bilateral series this past February, and Mandhana is eager to reignite that rivalry. "Australia is a good team, we've always had great contests. As a batter, I've always looked forward to playing them because they're among the best. We need to play the ball, not the situation, and give our best for the team."

Australia, meanwhile, is set to welcome back Phoebe Litchfield, who has missed three games with injury. Captain Sophie Molineux confirmed Litchfield is fully fit and ready to return. Beth Mooney, who dislocated a finger twice during the win over Pakistan, is also cleared to play. "Beth's finger looks fine—she's tough and will be absolutely ready," Molineux said.

Even with their semifinal place potentially secured before they take the field, Australia plans to pile pressure on India from the outset. "We still need to win and finish where we want," Molineux added. "There's pressure on them, and hopefully we can double down on that early. Games against India are always intense—with a sellout crowd, it's going to be a big occasion, and we're very much looking forward to it."