Harmanpreet ready for Oz test before WC

India will kick off their final buildup as co-hosts for the women’s ODI World Cup with the first game of a three-match bilateral series against formidable Australia in New Chandigarh on Sunday.

- Shalini Gupta

The series holds importance as both India, chasing their first World Cup of any kind, and Australia, the seven-time winners, prepare for the mega event.

India have built an intense rivalry with Australia women and this will be a great opportunity to test their recent improvements against the world’s best team and reigning World Cup champions.

Skipper Allyssa Healy is not taking India lightly in the series.

“For a long time, they have been a bit of a sleeping giant. But this is the most stable Indian team I have seen. They are aware of how dangerous they can be, and we have watched them challenge England recently. It is a rivalry that keeps growing, and they love beating Australia, especially at home. That's the challenge we are excited for,” she said.