Trying not to have too many expectations from myself: MI Captain Harmanpreet Kaur cricket news

Mumbai Indians captain Harmanpreet Kaur on Thursday said the defending champions are trying to keep their expectation levels to a minimum and focus on the WPL opener against Delhi Capitals. Mumbai will take on Delhi in Bengaluru on Friday in a repeat of last year’s final, which was held in Mumbai. “We have kept our preparations very simple. We are trying not to have too many expectations from ourselves and doing a lot of things. We had the same approach last year too and we want to continue that. We are looking forward to this match and Feeling very confident going into the tournament,” Harmanpreet said in her pre-match press meet.

Harmanpreet believes that one of the reasons for this was the extensive pre-tournament camp held by Mumbai Indians at their home ground.

“We used the facilities in Mumbai before the WPL. We also played some practice games, so that we could try some new combinations and the players also got a chance to work on their game.

“We feel we are ready for the game. Last year, we had to do extra team-bonding sessions and this time we got some more time on the field training,” he said. “In that sense, we also had the chance to see the new girls who have joined this year and we have got a good team balance and we are very confident.” Amanjot Kaur is one of the new recruits to the Mumbai team this year and Harmanpreet is hopeful that the left-arm wrist spinner can boost her team’s bowling unit.

“I haven’t seen any other women cricketer who bowls left-arm wrist spin. She’s a good choice for us. You need variety in T20 cricket and sometimes the batsmen get used to your regular bowlers “

“She is a player who has played more than 30 domestic games this year and has performed well in them. She also looked confident in our practice games,” he said.

Mumbai also signed experienced fast bowler Shabnim Ismail in the player auction last year and Harmanpreet said the South African will complement young fast bowling all-rounder Issie Wong this season.

“She is a great player and has done well for her country and whatever league she plays for. She brings a lot of experience with her and is someone who can bowl at good pace and That’s what we’re looking for.”

“Last year, Issie Wong gave us a lot of balance and now this year we have another option in Shabnim. Her presence gives us extra help in bowling,” he said.