“We’ve Broken Host Curse With Women’s World Cup, India Can do it Again”: Robin Uthappa

“This Indian team is extremely strong in terms of quality and depth, with multiple players competing hard for every spot. Compared to past eras, the options are far better, which is why India has a great chance to defend the title. There will always be a few concerns with any side, including this one, but if this team executes its skills to potential, it will be very difficult to stop India from retaining the T20 World Cup.”

“Defending a T20 World Cup title is daunting, you’re rarely in the same form two years later, and rebuilding that team mindset is tough. Post-2024, three key players retired, thrusting us into transition, though our depth raises hopes of becoming the first home winners. Conditions evolve, pressures mount unlike our dark-horse 2007 run and by 2009, changed dynamics and lost confidence cost us despite prior experience.”

“India and Australia are clear favourites, but watch out for Afghanistan, and Group D looks intriguing with South Africa’s struggles against wrist-spinners. I’m especially keen on newcomers Italy in their debut and Nepal, who’ve already beaten West Indies and shown promise.”

“India’s losses in tournament knockouts have been one-off pressure games where we’ve faltered after a strong start. Momentum at the right time is crucial, along with handling the law of averages. Form can be a concern, but big players step up in big moments, like defending 30/30 in the previous T20 World Cup through bowling and fielding. It all comes down to managing pressure in those decisive clashes.”

“We’ve broken the host curse before, with the Women’s World Cup, and I believe India can do it again. It’s possible when everything aligns: team unity, playing for each other, building camaraderie during the tournament, and sheer collective desire to win.”