Women’s T20 World Cup 2026: ‘India must win big, not just win’ - Abhishek Nayar’s valuable advice for Harmanpreet Kaur & Co

Former India cricketer Abhishek Nayar has shared a key piece of advice for the Indian team ahead of the Women's World Cup, stressing the importance of not only winning matches but securing convincing victories. Nayar pointed out that weather conditions in England could play a significant role during the tournament, making net run rate a crucial factor in determining qualification scenarios.

He emphasised that India should focus on registering early wins to build momentum and ease the pressure surrounding a potential semi-final berth. India are set to begin their campaign against Pakistan Women on June 14 in Birmingham. They have been drawn in a challenging group alongside Australia Women and South Africa Women, making every match vital in their quest to reach the knockout stage.

“India have to keep the weather in mind. Playing in England, rain is always a factor. Matches can be shortened or washed out. So, they can’t just aim to win. They have to win by big margins. Net run rate could decide who goes through,” said Nayar to JioStar.

“You want to enter the last two group games, against Bangladesh and Australia, with qualification already almost secured. You don’t want to go into those matches needing a win to qualify,” he added.

Harmanpreet Kaur speaks on India's preparation for T20 WC

Nayar also made it clear that the pressure in the much-anticipated clash against Pakistan rests largely on their opponents, insisting that India hold a clear edge in terms of overall skill and depth.

India have a favourable schedule in the Women’s T20 World Cup following their opener against Pakistan. They will next face the Netherlands on June 17 before taking on South Africa in what is expected to be a challenging encounter in Manchester on June 21. India will then round off their group-stage campaign against Bangladesh on June 25 and Australia on June 28.

“In women’s cricket, India is far ahead in skill and team strength. India walks in as the favourites and that is how everyone sees them,” said Nayar.