Harmanpreet Kaur has credited the Women’s Premier League (WPL) with playing a pivotal role in shaping her mindset as a leader, highlighting how the tournament and her time with Mumbai Indians have helped her embrace a culture of winning.
“The WPL has given us a different kind of exposure,” Harmanpreet said during a press conference. “Playing in an environment where every game matters and every team is competitive naturally builds a winning mindset. Mumbai Indians, in particular, have always focused on excellence, and that rubs off on you as a player and a leader.”
Harmanpreet also expressed her personal connection with Mumbai, describing the city as having a meaningful impact on her career. “Mumbai feels special to me,” she said. “The energy of the city and the support you get here makes a big difference. It’s a place where I’ve always felt comfortable, which allows me to express myself freely on the field.”
She emphasized that team culture has been just as crucial as on-field performance. “What stands out for me is the family atmosphere,” Harmanpreet explained. “When players feel supported by the management and coaching staff, they play without fear. That trust and backing is essential, especially in high-pressure tournaments like the WPL.”
With the new season starting on January 9, Harmanpreet revealed that the team has been concentrating on mental preparation. “We’ve spoken a lot about being mentally ready. The team is stable, we have a strong core group, and everyone knows their role. That clarity makes a big difference when the tournament begins,” she said.
Harmanpreet also highlighted how her leadership experience in the WPL has influenced her approach at the international level. “Whatever I’ve learned here, I try to carry that into international cricket—handling pressure, backing players, and making quick decisions. The WPL prepares you very well for that,” she noted.
She underlined the league’s broader impact on Indian women’s cricket: “You can see the difference in international performances. The WPL has definitely contributed to our success, including in the ODI World Cup. Domestic competition is getting stronger, and that only helps Indian cricket.”
This season, Mumbai Indians will be led under new head coach Lisa Keightley, who has taken over from Charlotte Edwards. Keightley echoed Harmanpreet’s views, saying, “The depth in Indian domestic cricket is improving every year, and it’s translating into better performances at the international level.”
With expectations high following a successful previous campaign, Harmanpreet believes the upcoming WPL season could mark another milestone. “It’s an exciting time for women’s cricket,” she said. “The mindset is changing, and that’s the biggest win.”
