Women's World Cup Opener: India and Sri Lanka Kick Off a New Era

GUWAHATI — A palpable sense of readiness and purpose defined the final preparations of India and Sri Lanka ahead of their Women's World Cup opener. The contrasts between the two teams' training sessions in Guwahati were subtle but revealing, hinting at two different approaches to a shared goal: a strong start to a tournament unlike any before.

India's practice was a display of quiet confidence. The session was light, precise, and highly focused. Bowling coach Avishkar Salvi was seen working with spinners, showcasing the team's depth and technical fine-tuning. Players like Kranti Goud bowled with a confident rhythm, a testament to a team that appears settled and clear on its objectives.

In contrast, Sri Lanka’s session was more muted and methodical. The team began with catching drills, quickly transitioning to intensive net practice. While the mood was serious, the camaraderie was evident, with players like Inoka Ranaweera and Sugandika Kumari sharing lighthearted moments. This balance of hard work and team spirit highlights a side that has matured significantly since its last major tournament.

This World Cup marks a significant shift from the 2022 edition, which was hampered by pandemic-related disruptions and limited preparation. Both teams arrive with unprecedented experience. Sri Lanka, who failed to qualify in 2022 and had not played a One Day International (ODI) in three years, now boast 31 ODIs under their belts. India has been even busier, having played 38 matches since the last tournament, including 14 this year alone.

Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur highlighted the team’s readiness, stating, "We've played more ODI cricket after the last T20 World Cup... We now have a lot of experience. This group has played together for so many years. There is a lot more clarity."

This clarity is visible beyond the statistics, reflected in the players’ body language, their on-field banter, and the focused intensity of their drills. This World Cup begins not with undercooked sides, but with two well-prepared teams ready to build on their recent momentum and compete on the world stage.

India and Sri Lanka kick off their campaign, showcasing the benefits of extensive preparation. India looks settled and confident, while Sri Lanka arrives with 31 ODIs under their belt since 2022. It's a new level of competition. #WWC #Cricket #INDvSL #WomensCricket