As the cricketing world gears up for the highly anticipated ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, set to take place in the UAE from October 3-20, 2024, one of Australia’s most decorated players, Jess Jonassen, has issued a stern warning to the Indian team. The left-arm spinner, who has been a key part of Australia’s title triumphs in 2012, 2014, 2018, 2020, and 2023, believes that while India are the front-runners for the trophy, her team cannot be underestimated.
India’s Depth and Versatility
In an exclusive interview with a select group of journalists, Jonassen highlighted India’s strengths, stating, “India are well and truly the front-runner because of the depth and versatility that they have. They have better knowledge of UAE conditions.”
The veteran spinner acknowledged that while Australia has played in different sub-continent pitches and conditions, they have little knowledge about the UAE, making it challenging for them to defend their title.
Australia’s Pedigree in Big Tournaments
Despite the challenges, Jonassen emphasized that Australia cannot be underestimated, saying, “We have played in different sub-continent pitches and conditions, but have little knowledge about UAE conditions, so it be challenging. We’ve been under another illusion that the pool that we are in is not one of the toughest. But I don’t think there’s going to be a single easy game.”
Australia has been the most successful team in the Women’s T20 World Cup, having won the title six out of eight times. Jonassen’s confidence in her team’s ability to perform in big tournaments is evident, as she stated, “Australia know how to play in big tournaments and can’t be underestimated.”
Yuvraj Singh Mocks Michael Vaughan Over Border Gavaskar Trophy Predictions
Other Contenders for the Title
In addition to India, Jonassen identified England and Sri Lanka as formidable opponents. She praised England for their experienced squad and strategic preparations in similar conditions. “England is obviously always up there… They have a really experienced side as well,” she commented
As for Sri Lanka, Jonassen highlighted their recent success in the Asia Cup, stating, “They are the most recent Asia Cup champions, they’ve won some series and games against some top sides.”
Jonassen’s Disappointment at Missing Out
Despite her vast experience and success in the T20 World Cup, Jonassen missed out on a place in Australia’s squad for this edition. She expressed her disappointment but also pride in her performances, saying, “I’m only human so it’s challenging. I’m obviously disappointed to have missed out, but equally I’m proud of myself. I know within myself there was literally nothing more I could have done to gain selection.”
Jonassen’s absence from the squad is a significant loss for Australia, given her impressive record of 74 wickets from 87 T20 matches and 118 wickets from 77 ODI matches. However, her words of wisdom and experience will undoubtedly be valuable for the Australian team as they prepare to defend their title in the UAE.
Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Telegram and Instagram
