India ahead of Australia clash: Team has shown a lot of character and will come with a positive mindset

All-rounder Sneh Rana said the Indian team has shown tremendous character in sticking together through a challenging Women’s World Cup campaign and is determined to put up a strong fight against seven-time champions Australia on Sunday.

India head into the clash after a narrow three-wicket loss to South Africa on Thursday. “That’s the beauty of this team, when things don’t go your way, it really tests your character. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose, but what matters is bouncing back together,” Rana said at the pre-match press conference on Saturday.

“We went back, studied the result (vs SA) and regrouped. It’s all about planning how we can improve and how to take the positives from it. Now, we look forward to the next game,” she added. Rana acknowledged the strength of the Australian side, but was confident about her side’s ability to give them a run for their money.

“They (Australia) are definitely the strongest competitor. But we are also going with a positive mindset. We have played against them in the past and defeated them. “So, the confidence is very high. We have been planning very well. Everyone is clear in their minds about their plan,” she said.

Rana was aware that the Indian top-order batters are yet to deliver in this tournament, but expressed confidence in their ability to turn things around. “I don’t think it is a big concern because our batters have tackled everything well in the past. Ups and downs are part and parcel of the game. We have some of the best batters in the world and it is just a