Arundhati Reddy Aims for Improved Performance in Women’s T20 World Cup

India‘s medium-pacer Arundhati Reddy expressed the team’s renewed focus on enhancing their net run rate in the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup matches. This shift in strategy comes after their six-wicket win over Pakistan, where the team missed the opportunity to improve their net run rate significantly.

Arundhati Reddy, aged 27, stood out with impressive bowling figures of 3/19, helping India restrict Pakistan to a total of 105 for eight. Despite a cautious batting performance by India, skipper Harmanpreet Kaur leveraged her experience to steer the team to victory.

“We understand that the net run rate is crucial, but winning the game remains paramount for us,” Reddy stated at the post-match press conference. She acknowledged the importance of net run rate in their group, which includes Australia, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and India.

Following the victory over Pakistan, India’s net run rate improved slightly from -2.90 to -1.217, still behind Pakistan’s rate of -0.555. The performance of the Indian batting lineup was impacted by the slow pitch conditions, with Reddy mentioning the challenges faced by the batters. “Today, the wicket was playing slower. Thus, the main focus was on finishing the game,” she explained.

Reddy’s fiery send-off to Nida Dar was a significant moment in the match, reflecting the intensity of the competition. Reddy remarked, “It was just in the heat of the moment.”

Having returned to the national team, Reddy has been determined to establish herself as a top T20 bowler. Her efforts since her last World Cup appearance in 2020 are evident in her improved skills and confidence.

Reddy acknowledged her personal struggles and the gap in her international career, highlighting the hard work put into becoming a versatile all-rounder. “For the last three-and-a-half years, I focused on improving myself,” she stated, revealing her ambition to be the best in the world.

Despite dropping two catches during the match, Reddy and her teammates emphasized ongoing improvements in fielding. “As a team, we are working hard on our fielding,” she said, showcasing the team’s commitment to addressing weaknesses.

Reddy shared her journey towards becoming a comprehensive T20 bowler, adapting her approach to suit all phases of the game. “I want to be a bowler who can bowl across all phases,” she commented, reflecting on her evolution since joining the Delhi Capitals in the Women's Premier League (WPL).

Her experience with Kerala and mentorship from former India women’s fielding coach Biju George significantly contributed to her current form. The economic benefits provided by the WPL allowed Reddy to pursue her ambitions, leading to her recent successes in the international arena.

Reddy’s recent performances have proven her capability to deliver under pressure, and with India’s first World Cup victory in Dubai, the team’s prospects in the tournament have brightened.