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NEW DELHI: Following their 50-over World Cup triumph, the Indian women’s cricket team has landed in England, aiming to grab the trophy at the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026. Starting June 12, this tournament will feature 12 teams for the very first time. India is placed in a tough Group A alongside heavyweights Australia, South Africa, Bangladesh, Netherlands, and arch-rivals Pakistan. After finishing as runners-up in 2020 and semifinalists in 2022, the team is desperate to finally cross the finish line.Before the on-field action began, 37-year-old captain Harmanpreet Kaur completely shut down a reporter who asked about her retirement plans during the captains’ meet presser. The veteran skipper, who debuted back in 2009, had a direct exchange that left the room completely silent:Watch:The conversation went on as follows:
- Reporter: Is this going to be your last World Cup?
- Harmanpreet Kaur: Why?
- Reporter: Just checking.
- Harmanpreet Kaur- Do you think I should stop?
- Reporter- Not at all.
- Harmanpreet Kaur- Then why are you asking this question?
The expanded tournament kicks off with hosts England playing Sri Lanka, with the grand final taking place at Lord’s on July 5. The top two teams from each group will qualify for the semifinals. India will kickstart their campaign against Pakistan in Birmingham on June 14, followed by a clash against the Netherlands on June 17. They will then face South Africa on June 21 and Bangladesh on June 25, before playing their final group game against Australia at Lord’s. All of India’s matches are scheduled to begin at 7:00 PM IST.
