Women’s Cricket World Cup: Shafali Verma replaces injured Pratika Rawal in squad

Dashing opener Shafali Verma has been named as an injury replacement for the in-form Pratika Rawal ahead of India’s Women’s ODI World Cup semifinal against powerhouse Australia at the DY Patil Stadium on Thursday (October 31, 2025). Pratika has been ruled out of the tournament after sustaining a right ankle injury during the rain-hit clash against Bangladesh at the same venue on Sunday (October 26, 2025).

The International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed Shafali’s inclusion in place of Pratika through a media release on Monday (October 27, 2025). Once Pratika’s ankle injury was deemed serious on Monday (October 27, 2025) morning, it was clear that either Tejal Hasabnis – named as a standby – or Shafali would be drafted into the squad.

The Hindu understands that the newly appointed selection panel, chaired by Amita Sharma, decided to go with Shafali in consultation with the team management. The selectors were keen to inject aggression at the top of the order against a strong Australian attack.

Shafali’s omission from the original squad by the previous Neetu David-led committee had raised eyebrows before the tournament, and her recall now marks a significant turnaround. Shafali, who was in Surat to represent Haryana in the Women’s T20 Trophy, joined the squad on Monday (October 27, 2025).

Pratika’s injury has come as a huge blow to India’s campaign. The opener has been one of the side’s standout performers, amassing 308 runs in six innings, making her the second-highest run-getter in the competition. Her flourishing partnership with Smriti Mandhana played a vital role in India’s march to the semifinals.

The injury occurred in the 21st over of Bangladesh’s curtailed innings when Pratika slipped on the wet outfield while attempting to save a second run. She appeared to have twisted her ankle and hurt her knee. Although a stretcher was brought onto the field, she managed to limp off with the support of her teammates.