Dek: Heartbreak for Pratika Rawal, hope for Shafali Verma — India’s Women’s World Cup campaign takes a sudden turn as a new opening chapter begins ahead of the semi-final against Australia.
Samay in 60 Seconds
- India opener Pratika Rawal ruled out of ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 due to ankle injury.
- Shafali Verma named as her replacement ahead of semi-final clash vs Australia.
- Rawal was India’s second-highest run-getter of the tournament with 308 runs in six innings.
- Shafali returns to the ODI setup after a year, following strong domestic and India A performances.
- ICC approved the replacement on October 27; Verma joins squad in Navi Mumbai.
Shafali Verma Replaces Pratika Rawal – Key Details
| Event | ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 |
|---|---|
| Injury | Pratika Rawal (ankle twist while fielding) |
| Replacement | Shafali Verma (approved by ICC Technical Committee) |
| Upcoming Match | India vs Australia Semi-final – October 30, Navi Mumbai |
| Rawal’s Stats | 308 runs in 6 innings at 51.33 average |
What Happened – Pratika Rawal Injury
In a cruel twist of fate, India’s top-order batter Pratika Rawal injured her ankle while diving near the boundary rope during India’s final group-stage game against Bangladesh in Navi Mumbai. The incident occurred on the last ball of the 21st over as she tried to stop a boundary — her foot got stuck in the turf, leading to a painful twist.
Rawal was immediately taken off the field and did not return to bat. India’s innings was later called off due to rain. Her absence, however, was deeply felt — she had been India’s pillar at the top, forming record partnerships with Smriti Mandhana that powered India to the semi-finals.
Why It Matters – Women’s World Cup 2025
Rawal’s injury comes at the most crucial phase of the tournament, just days before India’s semi-final showdown against defending champions Australia. With 308 runs at an average of 51.33, Rawal was India’s second-highest scorer, only behind Mandhana.
The selectors turned to the experienced Shafali Verma — once seen as India’s most explosive young opener — to fill the void. It marks her comeback into the ODI side after nearly a year.
Impact on You – India’s Semi-final Equation
Shafali Verma’s inclusion could bring a new attacking edge at the top, though she hasn’t featured in the 50-over format since October 2024. Her recent form in domestic one-dayers and India A matches makes her a strong replacement. Whether she opens alongside Mandhana or India opts for a reshuffle with Harleen Deol or Amanjot Kaur will be the tactical question for Thursday’s semi-final.
Samay’s Voice – When Grit Meets Opportunity
“In sport, heartbreak often writes the preface to heroism. For Pratika, it’s pain; for Shafali, it’s a second chance to shine when India needs her the most.”
Street FAQs
Q: When did Pratika Rawal get injured?
During India’s final league match against Bangladesh on October 26, 2025.
Q: Who approved Shafali’s inclusion?
The ICC Event Technical Committee, which confirmed the change on October 27, 2025.
Q: When will Shafali join the team?
She will report in Navi Mumbai ahead of India’s training session on October 28, 2025.
Q: Who else was in contention?
Tejal Hasabnis was the reserve batter but the selectors preferred Shafali’s experience and power-hitting ability.
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Sources
- ICC Official Release (27 October 2025)
- BCCI Media Updates
- SamayTimes Sports Desk Analysis
