Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has expressed strong confidence in the Indian women's cricket team as they gear up for the 2026 ICC Women's T20 World Cup, scheduled for June-July in England. Speaking on JioHotstar on January 1, 2026, Pathan highlighted the team's momentum after clinching their maiden 50-over World Cup title in 2025 and starting the new year with a commanding 5-0 series win over Sri Lanka in the T20I format. He believes the upcoming Women's Premier League (WPL), set for January-February 2026, will be a crucial preparation phase, providing match practice, depth in the squad, and backup options in case of injuries.
Pathan emphasized the value of the WPL in building confidence and translating the team's recent ODI success into the shortest format. "The advantage would be to play WPL before the WC. Their confidence levels are also very high, and it is not difficult to translate this form into T20Is as well. The power game of our women's players has also improved," he said. He pointed out that the current group is one of the strongest India has had in the past eight to ten years, and once the team adapts to English conditions, they could be nearly unstoppable.
The Indian women's team enters 2026 with renewed belief after breaking their long-standing 50-over World Cup drought and overcoming Australia in the semi-finals with a record-breaking chase. Pathan noted that this psychological edge, particularly against Australia—their traditional bogey team—will be key. Former Indian pacer Varun Aaron echoed similar sentiments, stating that the momentum is firmly with Team India, supported by strong backing from fans and the BCCI. "For a long time, Australia was a bogey team that they could not overcome, and after having beaten them... they would be feeling that they can achieve everything," Aaron said.
Also Read: BCCI Asked to Plan Triangular ODI Series as Kohli, Rohit Focus Solely on 50-Over Cricket
India's campaign in the 2026 T20 World Cup begins on June 14 against Pakistan at Edgbaston, Birmingham. Placed in a tough Group A alongside Australia, Pakistan, South Africa, and two qualifiers, the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side will look to carry forward their form from the WPL and recent bilateral series. Both Pathan and Aaron believe that with the right preparation, depth, and confidence, India has a genuine chance to lift their maiden T20 World Cup title.
As the countdown to the WPL begins, the focus remains on squad selection, injury management, and adapting to English conditions. The combination of recent success, improved power-hitting, and a strong domestic league is seen as a perfect recipe for success. Fans and experts alike are optimistic that 2026 could finally see India conquer the T20 World Cup summit.
Also Read: Adam Gilchrist Says Damien Martyn Showing Positive Signs While in Induced Coma