New Delhi – The Women’s Cricket World Cup is heating up as India prepares to face New Zealand’s White Ferns in a crucial group‑stage match Thursday. Both teams are fighting for a spot in the semi‑finals, so the pressure is high.
### New Zealand captain admires India’s star player
New Zealand skipper Sophie Devine told JioStar that she “has so much respect for Smriti Mandhana.” Devine praised Mandhana’s daily grind and her calm, consistent play. She added that it’s tough to be the opposition when there are few weaknesses to exploit, but that is what makes the match exciting.
> “She’s probably the most in‑form player in the world at the moment,” Devine said. “I’m looking forward to taking them on in Mumbai.”
### Indian teammates echo the admiration
India’s vice‑captain, Harmanpreet Kaur, and batter Sanju Kumar also spoke highly of the Kiwi captain. Kaur noted that her team loves seeing Devine’s aggressive style at the crease.
Mãdhana herself reflected on the experience of playing opposite Devine. She recalled watching the New Zealand batter hit the fastest 50 against India at Chinnaswamy when she was just 17‑18 years old. “I want to hit sixes like her,” Mãdhana said, underlining the legacy Devine has left for world cricket.
### New Zealand players comment on Indian duo
All‑rounder Suzie Bates described India’s captain and vice‑captain as “polar opposites” who balance each other well. Bates said Harmağanpreet is “ultra‑competitive and feisty,” while Mandhana’s calmness complements that fire.
Amelia Kerr, who lifted New Zealand to a T20 World Cup win, highlighted the importance of dealing with India’s spin bowlers, particularly Deepti Sharma and Radha Yadav. “Spin is a big part of this tournament,” Kerr said. “It’s about adapting to conditions and having a clear game plan.”
### Spin top‑scorer eyes the final
Deepti Sharma is the tournament’s leading wicket‑taker, with 13 wickets in five matches. Her pace and accuracy will be a key weapon against both the Australian and English sides as the World Cup progresses.
The upcoming clash between India and New Zealand will put the White Ferns’ strategy and India’s recent form to a serious test. Fans on both sides will be watching closely to see who comes out on top and secures a spot in the semi‑finals.
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Source: ianslive
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