The Women in Blue were handed a massive setback after skipper Harmanpreet Kaur missed the pre-match press conference. In her absence, vice-captain, Smriti Mandhana appeared. When inquired of Kaur's participation in the series opener, Mandhana said, "I don't think she's not playing; she's just unwell today. I am here just filling up (for Harmanpreet) today."