Runs in last two encounters has given me confidence ahead of World Cup: Harmanpreet

After a rough patch, Harmanpreet Kaur has returned to form scoring a crucial fifty in the final ODI against New Zealand and also scoring a much-needed hundred in the warm-up match against South Africa.

She says those two innings have given her the confidence going into the World Cup.

"There were ups and downs, the hundred I got (in the warm-up) has given me confidence. Even that innings against New Zealand was very crucial for me. Now it is very important for me to continue that," Harmanpreet said in a press conference.

"I have high expectations of myself because I know my importance for the team. Even I want to do well, sometimes things aren't going to be in your favour.

"But the last two innings which I played gave me a lot of confidence. When things aren't in your favour, lots of people talk about it but the good part is those who are close to me have always given me confidence. 

"I am really thankful for them because during that time it is important to get confidence. I am getting back into my rhythm and I just hope I can continue this rhythm," she added.

While Harmanpreet will always be remembered for the aggressive 171 she scored against Australia in the 2017 Women's World Cup in Derby, she says that she is not bothered by the numbers but just wants to be out there when the team needs her.

"I know a lot of people talk more about my 171 knock. I think I set myself a standard with that knock, I know I can play that kind of cricket," the India vice-captain said.

"Maybe that's why my smaller crucial knocks of 30, 40, 50 - for whichever team are not getting enough importance. I don't think I judge myself with numbers. 

"For me, what is important is irrespective of how much ever I score it should be enough for my team, irrespective of whether it is 100 runs or 10 runs. Numbers don't matter to me, what matters is whenever the team needs me, I should be there," she further explained.

While Harmanpreet has had a lot of success batting at No. 4, she confirmed that she will bat at No. 5 during the World Cup, with Mithali slotting in at four. "All these discussions keep happening, you rightly said I'm more comfortable at number 4 than 5. 

"Sometimes, you have to play according to the team's demands. But as of now, I think I'm going to play at number 5. 

"But in future, we can do it according to the match situation and role, but right now I don't think I'm going to play number 4, number 5 only will be my number."

India begin their 2022 Women's World Cup campaign against Pakistan on Sunday (March 6) in Mount Maunganui.