India’s cricket star Harmanpreet Kaur is feeling the buzz as captain ahead of the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup. With the tournament kicking off on home soil, she knows the pressure is on, but she’s fired up to deliver for her team and fans.
The Indian women’s team starts their campaign on September 30 against co-hosts Sri Lanka in Guwahati. They’re chasing their first senior women’s global title, and playing in front of roaring home crowds adds extra excitement. “Even in a World Cup, my mindset stays the same—I want to do something special for my team and country,” Harmanpreet said in an interview on JioStar. “I motivate myself that way so I don’t feel any pressure.”
Harmanpreet called hosting the World Cup a dream moment. “If we win here, it’ll be huge—not just for me, but for the whole country,” she added. “Everyone’s waiting for that, and we won’t let them down.” This marks her first time leading India in an ODI World Cup, and it’s her fifth overall appearance in the 50-over format. “Leading in a home World Cup? It doesn’t get bigger than this,” she said. “We won’t add pressure; we’ll just enjoy our cricket.”
She reflected on how far women’s cricket in India has come. The 2017 World Cup sparked massive awareness, and now talents are blooming thanks to leagues like the Women’s Premier League. “Every year brings more positivity,” Harmanpreet noted. “You can’t describe the pride when the national anthem plays—it’s everything.”
The team vibe is strong, she said. “Everyone’s positive, and fans feel it too after all the cricket we’ve played lately. It shows we’re ready for this big event.” Her tip for success? Keep it fun. “No matter the tournament, enjoying your cricket is key.”
Looking back, Harmanpreet shared memories of her 2009 debut at just 18. One day she was celebrating her birthday; the next, she learned she’d play in the ODI World Cup. Facing Pakistan in her first match made it unforgettable. “I was nervous the night before, but stepping onto the field with that crowd? Pure magic,” she recalled. The home pressure was intense for the young player, but it taught her lessons that stick with her today.
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