ICC Women’s World Cup: Pakistan upbeat ahead of India clash

Pakistan will face India in their first ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup match tomorrow. The clash between the arch-rivals will take place at the picturesque Bay Oval.

Speaking ahead of the contest, Pakistan captain Bismah Maroof is optimistic about her side’s chances and believes the hard yards her side has put in will reap rewards.

“We have been putting in the hard yards since our camp in Karachi and now is the time to deliver. The atmosphere of the team is very good. I am optimistic that we will do very well in the World Cup,” Maroof was quoted as saying by PCB.

“All 15 players here, in fact, I will count the traveling reserves as well, so all 18 of you are my match winners. You are here because you deserve to be and I have faith and trust in every one of you. Everyone is taking responsibility, which was on display in the two warm-ups. Just remember, we all have to stay focused and in the present. This is a big moment for us to leave a mark,” she added.

Bismah also spoke about the importance of starting the tournament on a positive note. 

“Everyone is looking forward [to the match against India],” she said. “It is our first match of the tournament and we want to win it so we gain the momentum. In such tournaments, it is very important to start good and carry the moment, and, of course, that increases the significance of the first match. I am sure we will be able to meet expectations from us.”