India have handed a dramatic recall to batter Shafali Verma for their ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 semi-final against Australia, after opener Pratika Rawal was ruled out with an ankle injury sustained during the final group-stage match against Bangladesh.
Rawal Ruled Out After Fielding Injury
The 25-year-old Rawal, who has been in exceptional form throughout the tournament, injured her right ankle while attempting to stop a boundary on a slippery outfield at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. The opener limped off the field and was unable to bat in India’s innings, prompting medical assessment that confirmed she would be unavailable for the rest of the World Cup.
Rawal’s absence is a major blow to India’s campaign. She is currently the second-highest run-scorer of the tournament with 308 runs in six innings at an average of 51.33, behind only her opening partner Smriti Mandhana. Her consistency at the top has been central to India’s strong run to the semi-finals.
ICC Approves Shafali Verma as Replacement
India’s request to name Shafali Verma as Rawal’s replacement was approved by the International Cricket Council’s event technical committee on Monday. The 21-year-old right-hander has been part of the India A setup in recent months and has continued to impress in domestic and developmental competitions.
Although Verma has not played an ODI for India since October 2024, her aggressive batting style and experience in high-pressure matches make her a strong addition ahead of the semi-final clash against reigning champions Australia on 30 October.
Verma’s Return Adds Firepower to India’s Line-Up
A regular in India’s T20I side, Verma has already established herself as one of the most dynamic young batters in women’s cricket. In 29 ODI innings, she has scored 644 runs at an average of 23, often providing explosive starts alongside Mandhana at the top of the order.
Her return could help India maintain their attacking approach against Australia’s world-class bowling unit, led by the likes of Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, and Jess Jonassen. Verma’s ability to take on the new ball could prove crucial if India hope to reach their first World Cup final since 2017.
Selection Options Ahead of the Semi-Final
With Rawal sidelined, head coach Amol Muzumdar and captain Harmanpreet Kaur face a decision about India’s opening combination. Amanjot Kaur stepped in at the top against Bangladesh, while Uma Chetry and Jemimah Rodrigues remain alternative options to partner Mandhana.
Given Verma’s experience and natural attacking instincts, many believe she could reclaim her place at the top of the order for the semi-final at the Wankhede Stadium, where conditions are expected to favor stroke play.
India’s Path to the Knockout Stages
India have been one of the standout teams in the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, winning four of their six group matches and finishing second in their pool behind Australia. Strong contributions from Mandhana, Deepti Sharma, and Renuka Singh have powered their campaign, while the side’s young talent has offered depth and balance.
Their semi-final against Australia on 30 October promises to be one of the tournament’s highlights, with ball-by-ball coverage available on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra, BBC Sounds, and the BBC Sport website and app.
Rawal’s Absence a Blow, But Verma Offers Hope
While India will miss Rawal’s consistency and calm presence at the crease, Verma’s inclusion injects renewed energy into the squad. Known for her fearless stroke play and ability to dominate early overs, she could prove to be a game-changer in Mumbai.
If Verma can rediscover her best form, India’s hopes of reaching the World Cup final — and possibly lifting their maiden title — remain very much alive.
Leave a Reply