‘We want to play more cricket’: Harmanpreet Kaur reflects on the importance of Commonwealth Games for Women’s cricket

Cricket is set to make a return at the Commonwealth Games 2022 after 24 years with a women’s T20 tournament scheduled to be organized at this year’s grand event in Birmingham, starting 28^th July. Indian women’s cricket team captain Harmanpreet Kaur is excited about the event and can’t wait to walk with the Indian contingent on the opening ceremony of the sporting extravaganza.

"This tournament is very important for us. This time we are playing for a medal. If I speak about myself, we have grown watching these kind of tournaments and we are glad that we are also getting an opportunity, we will be part of a big event. I think in the future, if we keep getting these (kind of) opportunities, it will be great for us," Harmanpreet said at the pre-departure press conference on Saturday.

Having played at World Cups before, Harmanpreet is looking forward to a different experience at the event.

"When you were speaking, I actually felt that I am walking on that (CWG) road, because that is what we are talking about and this time we are going to be part of multi-sporting event. "Now it is not only about cricket but other teams also and we will be there for them to cheer up and we want to celebrate each and every medal. This time it will be totally different and we are all very excited," she said.

India are placed in Group A with arch-rivals Pakistan, Australia and Barbados. They will kick off their campaign against Australia on July 29. Harmanpreet is wary of the challenge that Australia presents and is aiming to give her 100% in all the games.

"Whenever we play against them (teams like Australia), they have always given us tough competition. And this time also, we are looking very positive. Every game will be crucial for us and we will try to give 100 per cent."

The Indian captain further threw light on the importance of such events for women's cricket.

"Yes, as a cricketer, we always want that we want to play more cricket and this year we are getting to participate in a multi-sport event. So, when you go for a big-event it is important to perform well, the more we get such tournaments, it is good for women's cricket."