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The Indian women's team has been one of the most impressive sides in cricket over the last few years. From being regarded as minnows to their glory till date, the Women in Blue have produced some stellar performances which has left everyone absolutely stunned. Whether it was their sensational run to final of 2020 T20 World Cup in Australia or their spectacular effort in the one-off Test against England recently, the side has given some memorable moments on the field for fans to remember for lifetime.
However, the phenomenal journey started way back in 2017 during the Women's ODI World Cup. India came into the tournament as underdogs and there was hardly anyone who could have predicted what the team was about to achieve in England during the mega event. As revealed by Smriti Mandhana, even the International Cricket Council (ICC) could not foresee India's heroics over the course of tournament.
Mandhana reflects on India's 2017 World Cup campaign
Mandhana, who scored a brilliant hundred against Australia in the ongoing day-night Test, reflected on India's World Cup campaign in 2017. She went on to make a surprising revelation as she said, "The ICC already booked tickets after group stage of 2017 World Cup got over as they didn't expect us to reach the finals."
It must be noted that the assumption wasn't entirely wrong or biased since India were placed alongside some of the top teams like England, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, West Indies, Sri Lanka and Pakistan. Only 4 of them could go further to the semi-finals and India were expected to head home after the group stages.
India finished as runners-up in the mega event
However, much to everyone's surprise, the Women in Blue produced some terrific performances and went on to win 5 of their 7 group games to finish at 3rd spot, ahead of South Africa, New Zealand and West Indies.
Against all odds, they set up a semi-final clash with Australia and went on to defeat them to go through to the final. Although they came agonizingly close to lift the trophy, their dream run to the final was nothing short of fairytale which turned the tides for women's cricket in positive direction in the country.