India have come under heavy criticism after losing three matches on the trot during the ongoing 2025 Women’s World Cup. On Thursday, October 23, the Women in Blue will take on New Zealand in a must-win match at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai. Before the high-stakes encounter, India’s head coach Amol Muzumdar came on to bat Pratika Rawal and Harleen Deol, who faced backlash from fans for their strike rates.
Rawal and Deol were among the points but scored only 70.99 and 75.11 respectively in the eight-team tournament. Muzumdar, however, said there has not been any discussion with the two players over their strike rates and the team management is happy with the way they are playing.
“I mean, if you look at Pratika Rawal’s progress since last December when she made her debut in international cricket, she’s averaging around 50 and her strike rate is around 82, 83, if I’m right. I think that’s fantastic and we’d like her to continue with the way she bats and the whole team is behind her and Harleen as well. And you know, I don’t think there’s any on that particular subject discussion has taken place,” Muzumdar said while replying. a question from India Today during the pre-match press conference.
Highlighting Rawal’s excellent start in international cricket, Muzumdar said he was surprised to see her at the receiving end of criticism.
“I don’t know why this is being brought up. She has been fantastic with the group. She has taken to international cricket like a fish to water, so we are supporting her wholeheartedly,” Muzumdar said.
Rawal is the second highest run-getter for India so far in the campaign. She scored 186 runs from five matches at an average of 37.20. On the other hand, Deol has amassed 169 runs from five matches at an average of 33.80.
New Zealand have lost two matches and won one in the tournament so far. Their last two games have been watered down. Both India and New Zealand have four points from five matches so far, making Thursday’s encounter a highly anticipated affair.
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