Shafali replaces injured Pratika Rawal (Image credit:- X)

Shafali Verma has been drafted into the Indian squad ahead of the semi-final clash against Australia. She replaces the injured Pratika Rawal. The change comes at a crucial stage as India prepare for a high pressure knockout encounter against Australia.

Pratika Rawal sustained the injury in the 21st over of Bangladesh innings after twisting her ankle while trying to prevent a boundary at deep mid-wicket. She was visibly in pain and required assistance from the support staff to leave the field.

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Subsequent scans revealed that the 25 year old would be unable to recover in time to take part in the remainder of the World Cup.

Her injury comes as a significant setback for India’s campaign. She has been among the team’s most reliable batters this tournament, amassing 308 runs in 6 innings at an impressive average of 51.33. Her performance include a match winning century against New Zealand and a crucial half century versus Australia.

Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal formed a strong opening pair that laid the foundation for India’s batting success. They put together record 212 run stand against New Zealand earlier in the competition.

ICC Press Release

“The Event Technical committee of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 has approved Shafali Verma as a replacement for Pratika Rawal in the India squad. Verma was named as a replacement after Rawal was ruled out after sustaining an injury to her right ankle while fielding in the league match against Bangladesh on Sunday.”

“The replacement of a player requires the approval of the Event Technical committee before the replacement player can be officially added to the squad,” ICC press release said.

Pratika Rawal ruled out of the World Cup due to injury (Image Credit:- X)

Opener Shafali’s inclusion

Shafali’s inclusion, however, injects fresh energy and aggression into India’s top order. the young opener has been in outstanding touch in both domestic and franchise cricket. She scored 527 runs in one day format for Haryana at an impressive average of 75.28.

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Although she hasn’t featured in an ODI for India since October 2024, her strong outings for India A against Australia A and New Zealand A have showcased her form and readiness for the big stage.

What Neetu David said?

“Shafali Verma is very much part of our system. Right now, She is playing in Australia, but we are keeping an eye on her. the idea is that more she plays , the more experience she gains, and that will help India in the future, especially in the 50 over format. We don’t want to make a lot of changes to the team,” chairman of the women’s senior selection committee Neetu David said.