Anjum Chopra predicts 4 ‘game changers’ for Team India in the Women’s World Cup 2025

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The Women’s World Cup 2025 is all set to enthrall fans from September 30, with India and Sri Lanka co-hosting the prestigious tournament. The opening clash will see the two hosts locking horns at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, setting the stage for an action-packed month of cricket.

For India, expectations are sky-high as the Women in Blue enter the tournament in excellent form. With a strong batting unit, versatile all-rounders, and experienced bowlers, many experts believe this edition presents India with its best-ever chance to lift the World Cup. Former Indian captain and cricket analyst Anjum Chopra also shares this optimism and has identified four players who, in her opinion, will play a decisive role in India’s campaign.

Speaking about India’s batting line-up, Chopra pointed out that the team will need players who can handle pressure and step up during crunch situations. She expressed confidence in Harleen Deol and Jemimah Rodrigues to rise to the occasion when India needs them most.

“I would say when it matters the most, Harleen Deol and Jemimah Rodrigues should step up,” Chopra said in a conversation with InsideSport.

Notably, Deol has not been in fine touch over the past year, but expectations are high from her. Known for her stylish stroke play and calm temperament, Deol is expected to anchor the innings in the middle order. Meanwhile, Rodrigues has already established herself as a match-winner in T20 cricket and has the ability to adapt her game in the 50-over format. Her recent form in bilateral series has shown that she can deliver under pressure, making her a vital cog in India’s batting machinery.

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Chopra further emphasized the importance of India’s spin-bowling all-rounders in home conditions. She picked Deepti Sharma and Sneh Rana as the bowlers who could change the course of matches with their skill and temperament.

“In the bowling department, my reliance would be on Deepti Sharma and Sneh Rana,” Chopra added.

Deepti has been a pillar of India’s bowling attack for years, known for her accuracy and ability to break partnerships at crucial junctures. In addition to her bowling, Deepti’s batting prowess in the lower order adds depth to the side. Similarly, Rana has emerged as one of India’s most reliable performers in recent years. With her knack for delivering breakthroughs and her fighting spirit with the bat, Rana is expected to play a dual role in strengthening India’s chances.

With the tournament being held in familiar conditions, Team India will look to use their home advantage to push for their maiden Women’s World Cup title. The inclusion of match-winners across departments makes them one of the strongest contenders this year. As Chopra’s predictions underline, India’s success could well hinge on the performances of Deol, Rodrigues, Deepti, and Rana. If this quartet fires, the Women in Blue might finally end their long wait for World Cup glory.

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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.