India — The Indian women’s cricket team has brought back opener Shafali Verma as a replacement for Pratika Rawal, who has been ruled out of the ongoing ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 due to injury. Rawal sustained a knee and ankle injury during India’s league-stage match against Bangladesh and will miss the remainder of the tournament.
Official approval
The tournament’s Event Technical Committee approved the replacement, allowing Shafali to rejoin the national setup ahead of India’s high-stakes semi-final against Australia. The match, scheduled for October 30 at the DY Patil Stadium, is expected to be one of the most anticipated clashes of the tournament.
Team adjustments
Rawal had been one of India’s consistent top-order performers, often partnering with vice-captain Smriti Mandhana to give the team solid starts. Her exit is seen as a setback to India’s batting stability. However, selectors believe Shafali’s return adds attacking depth and experience, especially given her strong record in powerplay overs.
Team management now faces a strategic call — whether to reinstate Shafali as an opener alongside Mandhana or adjust the batting order to maintain balance. The decision will test India’s adaptability as they prepare to face Australia’s formidable bowling attack.
Shafali’s return
Verma, who was not part of the original or reserve squad, brings youthful aggression and prior big-match experience, having featured prominently in India’s earlier World Cup campaigns and domestic tournaments. Her inclusion is expected to boost morale and provide the team with a fearless batting option at the top.
What’s next
India, which finished second in the group stage, will be looking to avenge their previous semi-final loss to Australia. With Shafali’s return, the team is banking on a power-packed opening to gain early momentum in the knockout match.