‘No India v Pak hype a blessing’
A buoyant India face off against Pakistan in the Women’s World Cup in Derby on Sunday, but unlike other contests between the two tense neighbours, there is hardly any hype around the contest.
Former India wicketkeeper Anju Jain, who played from 1995 to 2005, believes it is a good thing for India. Jain told HT, “Lack of build-up is a blessing in disguise. For cricketers, this contest is just another game. Without all this extra attention, they can focus on the game.”
The Mithali Raj-led side has got off to a great start, beating England and West Indies with opener Smriti Mandhana the star, having top-scored with 90 and 106 not out.
Jain played a huge role in the 2005 edition in South Africa, where India finished runners-up for the only time, losing to Australia by 98 runs in the final in Centurion. Jain was the second-highest run-getter for India behind Mithali Raj with 155 runs at an average of 31. As wicketkeeper, she topped the list with 17 dismissals, which is still a World Cup record.
Jain believes early preparation is the key.
India went to England 14 days in advance and their performances reflect their acclimatisation. Jain believes India can repeat the 2005 success. “There are a bunch of good players who have been playing international cricket on a regular basis. Maintaining the intensity and consistency will be the key.”
Jain played at a time when women’s cricket was not taken seriously. But with the BCCI introducing contracts in 2015, things have changed.
“Now, players have plenty of financial benefits. The facilities and venues are now the best.”