New Delhi: India’s Women’s World Cup-winning captain Harmanpreet Kaur has revealed that a fiery pep talk from head coach Amol Muzumdar after a crucial defeat to England became the turning point in India’s remarkable title run.
Reflecting on the team’s roller-coaster campaign, Harmanpreet admitted that India were on the brink of elimination midway through the tournament after suffering consecutive losses to South Africa, Australia, and England. Yet, despite the setbacks, she said the dressing room never lost belief.
“The last month has been very interesting. Things didn’t always go our way, but the positivity in the group never faded. Everyone wanted that trophy — it meant something special to all of us,” she said.
Recalling the narrow defeat against England, Harmanpreet said the team was on track to win before a late collapse. “We were about to win that match, but we fell short. Everyone was heartbroken,” she admitted. “That was when Sir (Amol Muzumdar) spoke to us. He was upset and told us, ‘You can’t keep making the same mistakes. You have to cross that line.’ After that day, everything changed.”
India had needed 27 runs from the final three overs in that game, but the loss became a wake-up call. Harmanpreet said Muzumdar’s passionate message forced the players to reflect, regroup, and return with a stronger mindset.
“His words stayed with us. That night had an impact on everyone. We realised we had to fight harder and play with greater focus. From then on, the energy, confidence, and intent were completely different,” she said.
India’s revival after that defeat was nothing short of spectacular, as the team went on to win every remaining match, culminating in their maiden Women’s World Cup title. Harmanpreet credited the turnaround to belief, resilience, and the tough love shown by their coach at the most crucial moment.
