Table of Contents
- Pratika Rawal Ruled Out of Women’s World Cup
- Shafali Verma Makes Dramatic Squad Comeback
- What This Means for India’s Semi-Final Hopes
- Verma’s Road Back: Domestic Fire and India A Dominance
- India vs Australia: High Stakes in Navi Mumbai
- Sources
Pratika Rawal Ruled Out of Women’s World Cup
In a major blow to India’s campaign, all-rounder Pratika Rawal has been officially ruled out of the remainder of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025. The BCCI confirmed that Rawal sustained significant ankle and knee injuries during training ahead of the semi-final, requiring immediate medical intervention and rest .
Rawal, known for her tidy medium-pace bowling and gritty lower-order batting, had been a dependable utility player in the tournament. Her absence leaves a gap in India’s balance—especially in high-pressure knockout cricket.
Shafali Verma Makes Dramatic Squad Comeback
Stepping in is none other than explosive opener Shafali Verma. The BCCI has named Verma as Rawal’s replacement, and she is now available for selection for the crucial semi-final against Australia on October 30 in Navi Mumbai .
This marks a remarkable turnaround for Verma, who was left out of the original 15-member squad—a decision that sparked widespread debate among fans and experts alike. Her inclusion now isn’t just a formality; it’s a strategic masterstroke based on undeniable recent performances.
What This Means for India’s Semi-Final Hopes
While Rawal offered balance, Shafali Verma brings something India may need even more in a knockout: explosive starts. Against an Australian side known for its sharp new-ball attack, having a batter who can take early risks and shift momentum is invaluable.
Team management now faces a tactical choice: slot Verma back at the top or use her as a power-hitter in the middle order. Either way, her presence injects fresh energy—and a proven match-winning X-factor—into the squad.
Verma’s Road Back: Domestic Fire and India A Dominance
Verma’s recall isn’t a sentimental pick. Over the past six months, she’s been in blistering form:
- Scored 328 runs in 5 matches for Haryana in the Senior Women’s One-Day Trophy (Avg: 65.6, SR: 98)
- Smashed a 47-ball century in a T20 Challenger match
- Was Player of the Series in the India A vs South Africa A quadrangular, with 247 runs at a strike rate of 142
Her ability to dominate pace and spin alike—and her improved shot selection under pressure—show she’s matured beyond her years. Coaches have noted her enhanced fitness and fielding, addressing previous concerns.
Shafali Verma: Recent Form Snapshot
| Competition | Runs | Avg | Strike Rate | 50s/100s |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Senior Women’s ODI Trophy 2025 | 328 | 65.6 | 98 | 2/1 |
| India A vs SA A (ODIs) | 247 | 61.7 | 142 | 2/0 |
| Women’s T20 Challenger | 189 | 47.2 | 168 | 1/1 |
India vs Australia: High Stakes in Navi Mumbai
The semi-final on October 30 at the DY Patil Stadium promises fireworks. Australia, the defending champions, boast a formidable lineup led by Alyssa Healy and Ashleigh Gardner. India, fueled by home support and now bolstered by Verma’s return, will aim to break their recent knockout jinx.
With the match just days away, Verma’s integration into the playing XI could be the spark India needs. As one insider put it: “Sometimes, destiny knocks twice. Shafali’s ready to answer.”