Testing battles await Harmanpreet and Co

With tough fixtures ahead, India will be hoping to produce their best

- GOMESH S @Visakhapatnam

IT is a little close to 3PM on Wednesday in Visakhapatnam.

Set in the scenic backdrop of Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary and Simhachalam Hill Range, the ACA-VDCA Stadium is buzzing. The finishing touches are being given in and around the venue as it gears up for the city's first Women's World Cup match India versus South Africa - on Thursday.

The overnight rains and muggy weather meant the pitch and square had been under covers, but then, slowly, the sun came up in the afternoon, lighting up the mood in the Indian dressing room. Their captain, Harmanpreet Kaur and Jemimah Rodrigues were the only two to have turned up for an optional training session on the eve of the match.