Visakhapatnam
“The decision to implement a points system lies with the BCCI or ICC,” Harmanpreet stated before the series opener. “But as players, having such a system adds more excitement and motivation to the game. It makes the matches more challenging and enjoyable.”
Currently, the women’s Ashes series utilizes a points system where Tests are worth four points (four for a win, two for a draw) and limited-overs matches are worth two points each. The team with the most points at the end wins the Ashes, a system introduced in 2013 to maintain the relevance of the entire series.
The focus for India has shifted towards the upcoming T20 World Cup in October in Bangladesh, with the last ODI match played by the team in December 2023.
“We see it as an opportunity,” Harmanpreet remarked. “Although T20 games are more prevalent now, ODIs provide players with more time to assess themselves and the conditions. Having more matches allows us to showcase our skills in all three formats.”
Heading into the first match, India received positive news as both Jemimah Rodrigues and Pooja Vastrakar were declared fit for selection. Rodrigues had missed the recent Bangladesh tour due to a back issue, while Vastrakar’s injury status was unclear when the squad was initially announced by the BCCI.
