Don't get overawed, advises Anjum Chopra

KOLKATA: She was part of the Indian team that played its maiden ODI World Cup final in 2005, losing to Australia by 98 runs. Fifteen years later, Anjum Chopra, who is now part of the commentary team, will be keenly watching India take on hosts Australia in their maiden T20 World Cup final in Melbourne on Sunday.
The former India skipper, who featured in six World Cups, has a piece of advice for the Indian girls."There will be pressure when you play a World Cup final. It will be nerve-testing, but the girls should enjoy the moment. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, a rarity," Chopra said from her hotel room in Melbourne.
However, the southpaw feels the Indian girls should stay focused and not pay heed to the buzz outside. "They should focus inside the dressing room and not get overawed by the situation. The eleven players on the field and others outside should stay in a closely-guarded set-up," Chopra opined.
So what should the mantra for the team be? India speedster Jhulan Goswami, who was in two World Cup finals in 2005 and 2017, both in losing causes, said: "A final is more about mind games than skills. Playing in front of a packed MCG on Women's Day will be a huge moment.
"There are players in this team who played the 2017 final and understand the pain of losing. I am sure they will share their experiences with youngsters. It's another chance for them to win the Cup."
Despite their all-win record, the Indian team will worry about opener Smriti Mandhana and skipper Harmanpreet Kaur's indifferent form. "All eleven players will have crucial roles to play in the final. So far they have had two or three players stepping up. If they are to win the Cup they will have to dish out a world-class show," Chopra said.
"It's a concern that Harmanpreet and Smriti haven't been in form, but they have been striking the ball well in the nets. It's all about coming down and applying yourself a little more. I am sure they have found the missing link in their batting."
Echoing her thoughts, Goswami, said: "Harman is an extraordinary player and someone who is ideal for high-voltage matches. Her will to perform for India at big stages makes her different from the others. We are here to win the World Cup."