South Africa Eyes ODI World Cup Qualification in India Tour

As the men's T20 World Cup concludes, preparations for the women's ODI World Cup next year are underway. South Africa, currently third in the championship table, aims to secure automatic qualification and gain experience by playing hosts India.

India, as hosts, automatically qualify for the World Cup, but their ODI form has been inconsistent. After sweeping Sri Lanka and England in 2022, they tied a series in Bangladesh and lost 3-0 to Australia at home. However, they have over a year to improve their consistency.

South Africa, on the other hand, faces a crucial challenge. They need to win four of their remaining six matches to secure automatic qualification. If they win fewer games, they may still qualify but will rely on other results.

South Africa embarks on this journey without former coach Hilton Moreeng, who resigned in May. Assistant coach Dillon du Preez has taken over as interim coach, with Baakier Abrahams and Bongani Ndaba joining the coaching staff.

Tazmin Brits returns to the South African squad after recovering from a knee injury. She will partner Laura Wolvaardt, the leading run-scorer in ODIs this year, at the top of the order.

India's squad includes Jemimah Rodrigues, who missed the Bangladesh series with a back niggle. Pooja Vastrakar's availability is uncertain due to an undisclosed injury. Arundhati Reddy may be the second seamer in support of Renuka Singh if Vastrakar is unavailable.

Rain could impact the series, as showers have been frequent in Bengaluru. If play is severely interrupted, it would disappoint the local crowd, who have shown strong support for women's cricket.

India will look to improve their performances after disappointing showings against Australia. Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur will be under scrutiny, while youngsters Shafali Verma and Richa Ghosh will aim to make an impact.

Tags: #Women'sCricket, #ODIWorldCup, #SouthAfrica, #India, #LauraWolvaardt