India’s women’s cricket team is entering the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup with renewed confidence and high expectations after making history by winning the ODI World Cup last year. The landmark victory has not only boosted belief within the squad but has also strengthened their ambitions of adding another major trophy to their collection.
The Women’s T20 World Cup gets underway on June 12 in England, with India beginning their campaign against Pakistan in Birmingham on Sunday. The tournament is expected to be highly competitive, with defending champions New Zealand and 2024 runners-up South Africa among the strongest contenders.
India have been placed in a tough Group A alongside Australia, South Africa, Pakistan, Bangladesh and the Netherlands. The six-team group will see only the top two sides progress to the semifinals, making every match crucial.
Star batter Jemimah Rodrigues believes India’s success at the 2025 ODI World Cup has transformed the team’s mindset. According to her, the experience of winning a major global tournament has given players confidence that they can handle pressure and deliver on the biggest stage once again.
The 25-year-old, who played a key role in India’s maiden ODI World Cup triumph on the home soil, said that once a team experiences success, the desire to achieve even more naturally grows. She explained that the squad is no longer satisfied with winning just one title and is determined to continue building on that achievement.
Jemimah Rodrigues also highlighted the strong support India receives from fans around the world. She said the backing from supporters often makes the team feel at home regardless of where they are playing, adding to the confidence within the squad. As a result, she believes India should be considered among the favourites for the tournament.
Another factor working in team India’s favour is the presence of several players from the World Cup-winning team. Jemimah Rodrigues feels their experience can play an important role in guiding younger members of the squad through the challenges of a major international competition. Having already experienced success at the highest level, senior players are expected to share valuable lessons and help create a positive atmosphere within the group.
India captain Harmanpreet Kaur echoed those sentiments, saying that winning the ODI World Cup had a significant impact on the team. According to her, the achievement changed the outlook of the players and increased their hunger for more success. She expressed hope that the team could continue its winning momentum and fulfill its dream of securing additional world titles.
Head coach Amol Muzumdar also believes India is well-prepared for the challenge ahead. He feels the team has developed a strong winning mentality over the past few years and is ready to embrace the expectations that come with being reigning world champions.
With confidence high and expectations rising, India will be aiming to turn their recent success into another memorable World Cup campaign in England.
