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With the ODI World Cup 2025 set to take place in India, all eyes will once again be on emerging talent and key performers in the Women’s Premier League (WPL). Despite the format differences, Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur believes that the WPL is a proving ground for players who can thrive under pressure.
Speaking about the tournament’s role in shaping future international cricketers, Harmanpreet emphasized the importance of mental toughness and handling high-pressure situations.
“Yes, definitely, because I believe that if someone is doing well at this level, then she has some quality in her. The format may be different, but if a player reaches this level [WPL] and can handle the pressure here, then they can handle pressure anywhere,” she said.
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WPL: Bridging the Gap Between Domestic and International Cricket
Harmanpreet highlighted how the WPL has transformed Indian women’s cricket, bridging the gap between the domestic and international circuits. With the tournament entering its third season, she believes that strong performances in WPL can open doors to the national squad, especially ahead of the ODI World Cup later this year.
“We play all formats, but the common thread is, can you handle the pressure at this level or not? If we see players performing under pressure and winning matches for their teams, why not give them a chance to represent India?” she added.
The rising competition in WPL has also led to increased demand for players at auctions, reflecting their hard work and consistency. Harmanpreet expects the upcoming season to be even more competitive, with balanced squads and high-intensity games.
Expanding the WPL & Strengthening India’s Talent Pool
Harmanpreet also spoke about the possibility of expanding the WPL by introducing more teams. She believes this will provide more opportunities to domestic players and further enhance India’s talent pool.
“The WPL has given domestic players a much-needed platform. More teams will mean more opportunities, and that will only strengthen our cricketing structure,” she remarked.
WPL’s Influence on India’s Playing Style
Harmanpreet acknowledged the evolution of women’s cricket and how teams like Australia and England have set benchmarks in terms of aggression, fitness, and strategy. She believes the WPL has helped Indian players adapt to international standards, making them more competitive on the global stage.
“Earlier, there was a significant gap between domestic and international cricket, but WPL is helping close that gap. Players are now more prepared, scoring higher, and improving their overall performance,” she said.
With the ODI World Cup approaching, Harmanpreet is hopeful that the WPL will uncover new stars who can handle high-pressure situations and contribute to India’s success on the world stage.
