India captain Harmanpreet Kaur has once again underlined the impact of the Women’s Premier League on Indian women’s cricket, saying the tournament — and her time with Mumbai Indians — has played a key role in building a strong winning mindset, both as a player and a leader.
Speaking ahead of the new Women’s Premier League season in Mumbai, Harmanpreet said the competitive environment of the league has transformed how Indian players approach pressure situations.
‘Every game matters in the WPL’
“The WPL has given us a very different kind of exposure,” Harmanpreet said during a media interaction. “When every match is intense and every team is competitive, you automatically start thinking like a winner. That mindset stays with you.”
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She added that the culture at Mumbai Indians has been especially influential. “MI always talks about excellence and standards. When you’re part of that setup, it pushes you to raise your own game — not just in performance, but in decision-making as well.”
A special bond with Mumbai
Harmanpreet also spoke warmly about her connection with the city, calling Mumbai a place where she feels at ease on and off the field.
“Mumbai feels special to me,” she said. “The energy here, the fans, the support — it gives you confidence. When you feel comfortable, you can express yourself freely as a cricketer.”
Team culture beyond results
According to the India skipper, the biggest takeaway from the WPL isn’t just wins or trophies, but the culture within the team.
“What stands out for me is the family-like atmosphere,” Harmanpreet explained. “When management and coaches back players, there’s no fear of failure. That trust becomes very important in high-pressure tournaments like the WPL.”
Focus on mental readiness
With the new season set to begin on January 9, Harmanpreet said preparation has gone beyond skills and fitness.
“We’ve spoken a lot about mental readiness,” she said. “The team is quite stable, there’s a strong core group, and everyone understands their role. That clarity really helps once the tournament starts.”
From franchise cricket to Team India
Harmanpreet believes her leadership experiences in the WPL have directly influenced her approach at the international level.
“Handling pressure, backing players, making quick calls — the WPL prepares you for all of that,” she said. “Whatever I learn here, I try to carry it into international cricket.”
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She also linked the league to India’s recent global performances. “You can clearly see the difference at the international level, including in World Cups. Strong domestic competition always lifts the national team.”
New coach, same ambition
Mumbai Indians will begin the season under new head coach Lisa Keightley, who has taken over from Charlotte Edwards. Keightley echoed Harmanpreet’s views, pointing to the growing depth in Indian domestic cricket and its impact on international results.
With expectations high after a successful previous season, Harmanpreet believes the WPL is entering a defining phase.
“It’s an exciting time for women’s cricket,” she said. “The mindset is changing — and that, for me, is the biggest win.”
