Published By: Sanchari Das

Did You Know This Indian Player Captained Most Times Against PAK in T20Is?

India's captains have played crucial roles in shaping the team's fortunes, especially in high-stakes matches against PAK

India's ICC Women's T20 World Cup campaign took a challenging start on Friday, October 4, but their focus now turns to the much-anticipated clash against PAK. Scheduled for Sunday, October 6, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium (DICS), this match is crucial for India's survival in the tournament. After a disappointing 58-run loss to New Zealand, the Women in Blue need a strong comeback to stay in contention for the semifinals.

To make the cut, they must not only win all remaining Group A matches but also do so convincingly. Standing in their way, PAK is riding high on confidence after defeating Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka by 31 runs. Historically, India has dominated PAK in T20Is, winning 12 out of 15 encounters. In the T20 Women's World Cup alone, India has triumphed in five out of seven matches. Yet, PAK remains a formidable opponent, and India's journey to redemption begins here. In the following article, we will discuss the captains who have led India the most number of times against PAK.

Harmanpreet Kaur

Harmanpreet Kaur holds the record for captaining India the most times against PAK in T20Is. Leading India in nine matches, she has guided the team to eight victories, losing only once. Harmanpreet's remarkable leadership was once again on display during India's opening match in the 2024 Women's T20 World Cup against New Zealand. She is the first-ever Indian captain to lead the team in four editions of the Women's T20 World Cup, a testament to her enduring influence.

Harmanpreet is also a part of an elite group of players who have participated in every edition of the Women's T20 World Cup alongside legends like Sophie Devine, Ellyse Perry, and Stafanie Taylor. As India's most experienced T20I player, with 174 appearances, she also holds the record for most matches led (119). Under her captaincy, India reached their only T20 World Cup final in 2020, and despite tough losses in the 2018 and 2023 semifinals, her leadership remains invaluable.

Mithali Raj

The legendary Mithali Raj is second in line for captaining India against PAK in T20Is. Mithali led India in four matches against their arch-rivals, winning two. As a trailblazer in Indian women's cricket, Mithali was the first captain to lead India to victory against England in a T20I match 2006. Though her T20I captaincy record stands at 32 matches overall, her contribution to India's cricketing journey has been foundational. Mithali's calm and composed leadership helped set the groundwork for future generations, including Harmanpreet.

Jhulan Goswami

Jhulan Goswami, one of India's finest cricketers, also captained the side against PAK twice in T20Is. Jhulan's captaincy boasts a 100% success rate against PAK, winning both matches under her leadership. A former captain from 2008 to 2011, she remains a revered figure in Indian cricket, not only for her leadership but also for her impact as a pace bowler.

The road ahead

As India gears up for their next match, Harmanpreet will once again lead the charge. With her experience and a team ready to fight, India aims to extend its dominance over PAK and keep its World Cup hopes alive.