NEW DELHI: Former India captain Anjum Chopra praised Amanjot Kaur’s clutch knock in India’s remarkable victory against Sri Lanka in the Women’s World Cup opener, saying that she made her presence felt and it never seemed like she was playing her first-ever World Cup game.
All-rounders Amanjot, Deepti Sharma and Sneh Rana rose to the occasion as the Women in Blue opened their campaign in style.
“For someone playing her first World Cup, and coming back after so many injuries, Amanjot absorbed the pressure remarkably well. That, for me, was the real difference. Even after offering a chance, she composed herself, scored a half-century, and built a 100-plus partnership with Deepti. That’s what defines good players, making their presence felt in big tournaments. I firmly believe Amanjot Kaur should be in India’s XI in any condition, because she brings temperament and solidity to the middle order, " Anjum said on JioStar.
Former Sri Lanka cricketer Russel Arnold, who is also an expert on the panel, spoke about Deepti's performance. Notably, the allrounder scored a run-a-ball 53 and backed it with a three-wicket haul to earn the Player of the Match award.
“Deepti played out of character, and that was exactly what the situation demanded. When she came in, she swept a couple to the boundary and from then on, it was a run-a-ball knock. She looked composed, found the gaps with ease, and as the senior partner, brought out the best in Amanjot Kaur.
"She allowed Amanjot to play freely, gave her confidence to attack, and together they built a crucial stand. Had Deepti tried to force the pace early and lost her wicket, India would have been in trouble. The way she adapted shows the maturity she has developed.”
Arnold also shed light on India’s overall performance, saying that the top-order batters handled the pressure well even after losing opener Smriti Mandhana early. He also praised the Lankan bowlers, adding that their line and length were spot on.