Harmanpreet Kaur Stars In Courageous Message Ahead Of India's Women's T20 World Cup Opener

Harmanpreet Kaur led Indian Women's Cricket Team are all set to open their T20 World Cup 2024 campaign against New Zealand. Harmanpreet Kaur and her side enter into the T20 World Cup with a lot of expectations as they alongside Australia are one of the favourites to lift the World Cup. 

India will open their T20 World Cup campaign against New Zealand on Friday evening and expectations are high as they aim to win their first ever T20 World Cup crown in the women's category. Ahead of India's T20 World Cup opener, Harmanpreet Kaur stars in a courageous message to her opponents. 

Harmanpreet Kaur's courageous message 

In a daring move to redefine perceptions, ahead of the women’s key cricketing season, sports brand PUMA India launched a bold campaign with – Harmanpreet Kaur and Richa Ghosh, amongst others – as true gamers. Giving a fresh spin to its iconic property, 'Cricket Is Everyone’s Game' the sports brand executed a dynamic photoshoot with the ace cricketers, headlining  “you need balls”.

The campaign put the spotlight on Harmanpreet Kaur's record-breaking achievements. It highlighted Harmanpreet Kaur's iconic innings of 171 runs in 115 balls to propel India to victory in the Semi Finals of ODI World Cup 2017. 

“There’s no denying that cricket has historically been a male-dominated sport, but we women are fiercely changing that perception and this fresh take hits home as it reminds everyone of what truly matters in cricket. Whether you're batting, bowling, ‘keeping, or fielding, it’s all about balls. We’re here to change the conversation and show that true glory is earned ball-by-ball," said Harmanpreet Kaur. 

Also Read | India Coach Announces Harmanpreet Kaur to Bat at No.3 in Women's T20 WC

India's outlook for match against New Zealand

India are definitely the favourites but the Kiwis will definitely be a tough nut to crack in this early encounter.  India's record against New Zealand isn't convincing. Indian women have faced New Zealand in 13 encounters and have been completely dominated by the White Ferns. New Zealand lead the Head to Head 9-14.  

In their previous meeting back in February 2022, New Zealand won by 18 runs in Queenstown. In the T20 World Cups, it’s 2-2. The last time they met in the mega event, India beat New Zealand by three runs at the Melbourne Cricket Ground back in 2020.

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India's record against New Zealand might not be good but there is a big contrast in the form of both the sides. In the 16 T20Is, India have played this year, they've won 11 and lost only 4. One was a no result against South Africa. They've beaten the likes of Australia, Bangladesh , South Africa in the span.

On the other hand, New Zealand have had an abysmal year. They've played 13 T20Is and have lost 12 of those in the year 2024. The Kiwis last won a T20I in March against England and are on a 10 game losing streak. Hence, India are the clear favourites in the matchup.