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Harmanpreet Kaur Aims to “Break the Barrier” in Home ODI Women’s World Cup 2025
India’s Quest for World Cup Glory
The dream of lifting the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup has remained just out of reach for the Indian women’s cricket team for nearly two decades. As the countdown to the 2025 edition ticks down, skipper Harmanpreet Kaur has set her sights firmly on overcoming what she calls the “final barrier.”
Speaking at the 50-day countdown event in Mumbai on Monday, August 11, Harmanpreet expressed confidence in the team’s ability to perform under the intense spotlight of a home tournament.
“Playing in front of a home crowd is always special, and hopefully this time we’ll give our 100 per cent and finally break the barrier that all Indian fans have been waiting for,” the captain said.
Past Performances and Near Misses
India’s journey in the Women’s ODI World Cup has been filled with moments of brilliance mixed with heartbreak. The team were runners-up in 2005, finished third in 2009, endured a tough campaign to finish seventh in 2013, and came agonisingly close to the title in 2017, losing to England at Lord’s.
That 2017 campaign remains etched in fans’ memories, especially Harmanpreet’s breathtaking 171-run knock against Australia in the semifinal — one of the most iconic innings in women’s cricket. Despite that remarkable performance, the final ended in heartbreak for the team.
For detailed coverage of India’s 2017 heroics, click here to read our feature on memorable Women’s World Cup matches.
Harmanpreet’s 2017 Memories
A Knock That Changed Everything
Recalling her unforgettable innings, Harmanpreet said:
“I still remember that knock – it was very special. A lot changed for me personally after that. At the time, I didn’t fully realise what had happened, but when we returned to India after losing the final, the number of people waiting and cheering for us was truly remarkable. That was something very special.”
That performance not only elevated Harmanpreet’s stature in world cricket but also inspired a new generation of Indian girls to dream big in the sport.
Pressure and Opportunity in a Home World Cup
The upcoming ODI Women’s World Cup 2025, scheduled from September 30 to November 2, will be the first time India hosts the tournament in over a decade. The home advantage also brings its own set of challenges, with heightened expectations from fans.
However, Harmanpreet is choosing to see this as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity:
“There will be pressure, no doubt. But I want to enjoy the occasion and channel that energy into our performance.”
Cricket enthusiasts worldwide are expecting a fiercely competitive tournament, with India being touted as one of the favourites alongside defending champions England and perennial contenders Australia. For more details on the tournament schedule and participating teams, visit the official ICC Women’s World Cup page.
