Mithali Backs India, Australia, England and West Indies for Women's T20 World Cup Knockouts
Former India captain says Richa Ghosh could be the team's trump card, while Shreyanka Patil's injury is a setback.
Former India captain Mithali Raj believes India are well-placed to qualify for the knockout stage of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 despite the setback of Shreyanka Patil's injury. Speaking during the JioStar Media Day, Mithali said the all-rounder's absence would force India to explore alternative plans, with Radha Yadav emerging as a potential replacement in the spin department.
Assessing the semi-final race, Mithali backed Australia and India to advance from Group A, while naming England and West Indies as her picks from the other group. She noted that India's victories in their opening two matches had strengthened their chances ahead of crucial fixtures against South Africa and Australia.
The former skipper also expressed concern over India's middle-order inconsistency, saying the team needs stronger partnerships from batters in the No. 3 to No. 5 positions to ease the burden on wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh. Mithali described Ghosh as India's "trump card", citing her ability to accelerate in the death overs and add crucial runs.
On Jemimah Rodrigues, Mithali said the batter looked more composed in her second outing after appearing rushed in India's opening match, and expected her to return to her best form as the tournament progresses.
Mithali also backed Smriti Mandhana to eventually surpass her record for most international runs by an Indian woman cricketer, praising her consistency and leadership alongside Deepti Sharma.
