As the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 heats up, India’s campaign has reached a critical point. Following surprising setbacks against South Africa and Australia in their previous couple of games, the Women in Blue now find themselves in a must-win situation to keep their semifinal hopes alive.
The stakes are high, pride, points, and momentum are all on the line. For India to turn things around, their senior players need to step up and take charge. Here are three key players who could play a crucial role in India’s comeback against England in this year’s World Cup.
1. Harmanpreet Kaur
Harmanpreet Kaur’s journey in the World Cup so far has been more about determination than form. The Indian skipper has faced challenges, scoring 71 runs in her last five ODI innings with an average of 17.75, numbers that don’t reflect her talent or potential. However, her history against England is impressive. In 27 ODIs against them, she has scored 955 runs at an average of 45.47, with five fifties and three centuries.
Kaur has often delivered during high-pressure situations, with her unforgettable innings of 171* in the 2017 World Cup semi-final serving as a reminder of her capability. This game presents an ideal opportunity for her to reclaim her form, leading both with the bat and as a captain. The team needs her decisive leadership, and fans are hoping to see the best of Harmanpreet when it matters most.
2. Smriti Mandhana
Smriti Mandhana is finally showing signs of resurgence after a below-par start to the tournament as per her standards. Her fluent 80 off 66 balls in the last match against Australia indicated that she’s rediscovered her rhythm at the top of the order. With a tournament total of 134 runs in four innings and an average of 33.50, she’s become one of India’s top scorers.
Mandhana’s performance against England has also been promising; she has 942 runs in 20 ODIs against them at an average of 49.57. She excels against England’s pace attack, especially when the ball is moving, and her left-handed style allows her to control the off-side play. If she can deliver a strong start and stay at the crease for a significant part of the innings, it will alleviate pressure on the middle order. With her confidence back, Smriti Mandhana has the potential to turn the game in India’s favour.
3. Deepti Sharma
Deepti Sharma has consistently delivered in challenging situations, making her an invaluable asset to the team. In this World Cup, she has proved to be a key player, claiming 9 wickets in 4 matches at an impressive economy rate of 5.25, while also contributing 83 runs down the order. Her knack for controlling the middle overs and taking crucial wickets has been vital in limiting the opposition’s scores.
Against England, her record shines with 18 wickets in 18 matches. Deepti’s off spin often troubles the English batters, especially when the pitch assists her. Moreover, her composure with the bat adds depth to the order, essential in tense moments.
India’s World Cup journey is at a pivotal crossroads, one that could either reignite their campaign or lead to disappointment. For a revival, Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana, and Deepti Sharma must excel when it counts. With over 800 international matches among them, they embody a blend of leadership, skill, and poise under pressure.
If they can synchronise their strengths, India won’t just stage a comeback; they’ll make a resounding statement. The stage is set; the stakes are high, and this game could very well define the course of India’s 2025 World Cup campaign.
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