India’s Women’s ODI World Cup campaign has suffered a major setback with in-form opener Pratika Rawal ruled out of the tournament due to injury. The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday confirmed that dynamic batter Shafali Verma has been named as her replacement ahead of India’s crucial semifinal clash against defending champions Australia at the D.Y. Patil Stadium on Thursday.
Pratika sustained a right ankle injury during India’s rain-hit match against Bangladesh on Sunday. The incident occurred in the 21st over of the Bangladesh innings when the opener slipped on the damp outfield while trying to prevent a second run. Although a stretcher was called onto the field, she chose to walk off with the assistance of her teammates, visibly in pain. Subsequent scans confirmed the injury was serious enough to rule her out of the rest of the competition.
Her absence leaves a big void at the top of the order. Pratika has been one of India’s standout performers in the tournament, scoring 308 runs in six innings and forming a strong opening partnership with Smriti Mandhana. Together, the duo provided India with several solid starts, helping secure their passage to the semifinals.
In a media release, the ICC officially confirmed Shafali Verma’s inclusion in the squad. The newly appointed selection panel, chaired by Amita Sharma, made the decision after consulting with the team management. According to sources, the selectors opted for Shafali’s attacking intent and experience in pressure situations as key factors in their choice.
“Shafali’s inclusion brings a fearless dimension to our batting lineup,” a member of the selection committee told Sportstar. “We felt her aggressive approach could be vital against Australia’s strong bowling unit.”
Shafali’s omission from the original World Cup squad by the previous Neetu David-led committee had surprised many, given her proven record in international cricket. Her recall now marks a significant turnaround in her fortunes. The 21-year-old, who was representing Haryana in the Women’s T20 Trophy in Surat, joined the national team camp later on Monday evening.
For India, the change at the top presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Shafali’s return could inject fresh energy and attacking intent as the team prepares to face the formidable Australian side in a high-stakes semifinal. However, the loss of Pratika’s consistency and composure at the crease will undoubtedly be felt.
With the semifinal looming, all eyes will be on how quickly Shafali adapts and fills the gap left by one of India’s most reliable batters of the tournament.
