India’s women’s cricket team is all set to embark on a challenging white-ball tour of England, with skipper Harmanpreet Kaur leading both the T20I and ODI squads. The tour, beginning on June 28, marks a crucial phase in India’s preparation for the upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup at home later this year and the T20 World Cup in England next year. With a blend of experience and exciting young talent, the squads reflect a focused intent on building a strong core and testing depth in overseas conditions.
The Indian selectors have named full-strength lineups for both formats, indicating the seriousness with which the tour is being approached. Harmanpreet, one of the most experienced players in the international circuit, will be supported by Smriti Mandhana, who continues as vice-captain in both squads. Mandhana’s recent form and consistency in white-ball cricket make her a vital pillar at the top of the order.
One of the most talked-about inclusions is the return of Shafali Verma to the T20I squad. After a hiatus of several months, her aggressive batting and power-hitting ability make her a game-changer, especially in English conditions where early momentum is crucial. Also making a return is all-rounder Sneh Rana, whose utility with both bat and ball provides the balance India needs in the shorter format.
Among the newer faces, Kranti Gaud and Sayali Satghare have earned maiden T20I call-ups. Both players impressed in domestic competitions and in the Women’s Premier League, showcasing pace, swing, and temperament under pressure. Their selection underlines the selectors’ willingness to invest in fresh talent ahead of key global tournaments. Sree Charani and Shuchi Upadhyay, who were part of the recent ODI tri-series in Sri Lanka, have been retained in both squads, signaling faith in their long-term potential.
Renuka Singh and Shreyanka Patil are notable absentees due to injury. Both players have been crucial to India’s bowling attack, especially in the powerplay and middle overs. Their absence, though significant, opens the door for other bowlers to step up and prove themselves in foreign conditions.
The tour schedule includes five T20Is and three ODIs, spread across some of England’s iconic cricket venues. This series will also test India’s adaptability and resilience, as they look to fine-tune their combination and performance dynamics ahead of back-to-back world events.
The last time India played a bilateral series in England, they won the ODI series 3-0 but lost the T20I series 2-1. The upcoming series offers a chance to not only improve on that T20 record but also build winning momentum under pressure.
For Harmanpreet Kaur, this tour is more than just another assignment—it is a stepping stone toward consolidating her leadership and guiding the team through one of the most crucial phases in its modern journey. With the right mix of leadership, talent, and determination, the Indian women’s cricket team will be aiming to make a strong statement on English soil this summer.
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