India are ranked third in the world in the format and have recent experience of how to go about beating the world’s top-ranked team.

While Australia did win a T20I series 2-1 in India earlier in 2024, it was the first match of that series that will give Harmanpreet Kaur’s side particular confidence.

Having bowled Australia out for 141, India chased it down in quick time, inspired by half-centuries from opening pair Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma – both of whom also looked in good form during India’s win over Sri Lanka earlier this week.

“(Against Australia) we definitely have to play good cricket first of all,” India captain Kaur said, hoping for a similarly ruthless bowling performance this time around.

“They are a good side, but at the same time it’s good to see our bowlers in a good rhythm, they are giving us breakthroughs whenever we need it.”

And young opener Verma is similarly bullish:

“For Sharjah, we will have three days off, If I am not wrong. So, we will work on the process and we will focus on what we can do to be confident. And hopefully, if we give our 100% individually then of course, we will win.”