The leaders of the Indian women's team consider the upcoming Asian Games in Japan as a preparation for the Olympics in LA in 2028.
Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur and head coach Amol Muzumdar said they are prepared for a different experience in countries that are not known for cricket. India won the last Asian Games in China, but Aichi-Nagoya poses a unique challenge.
Also read: Here's why Team India wouldn't hesitate to collect the Asia Cup trophy next year
“I'm sure how we enjoyed the last time in China (2022 Hangzhou Asian Games), the same way we are going to enjoy here (in Nagoya),” Harmanpreet said. “As a team, we are looking forward to the Olympics, and hopefully going with the same mindset and the same approach... these two tournaments (Asian Games and Olympics), especially as a cricketer, we are really looking forward to.”
Rivals Pakistan made a shaky start, with a three-wicket win over Thailand on Thursday, but India would hope to start stronger when they take on hosts Japan on Friday. India won the last edition at Hangzhou in 2024, with a 19-run win over Sri Lanka.
Muzumdar echoed the views of his skipper and called the Games a teaser for the 2028 Olympics that will host cricket for the first time in 128 years. “I think this (Asian Games) is a great teaser towards the Olympic quest for the Indian women's team. We are getting used to certain things in the Asian Games. Just touring a different part of the cricketing world, which is Japan... never before been in this country,” said Muzumdar.
“The same would probably be true for most of us in LA. So, I guess the players would have a different kind of an experience. I think it (Asian Games) is a great learning experience for everyone of us and I'm really looking forward to this Asian Games,” said Muzumdar.