India’s women’s cricket team faces a significant setback as Pratika Rawal has been ruled out of the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup. The 25-year-old opener sustained injuries to her knee and ankle during India’s final league-stage match against Bangladesh at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. The match was abandoned due to heavy rain.
Injury Details and Impact on the Team
Pratika Rawal twisted her ankle while attempting to field a ball in the 21st over of Bangladesh’s innings. Despite a well-maintained drainage system at the stadium, there were still significant puddles in unprotected areas. Rawal had to be assisted off the field, raising concerns for the Indian squad just 48 hours before their semifinals against Australia.
Performance Summary
Before her injury, Rawal made notable contributions throughout the tournament. She scored 308 runs across six matches, averaging 51.33. Her highlights include a half-century against Australia and a remarkable 122 runs off 134 balls against New Zealand. She was the second-highest run-scorer for India, trailing only her senior partner Smriti Mandhana.
- Total Runs in World Cup: 308
- Matches Played: 6
- Average: 51.33
- Century Against New Zealand: 122 runs
- Partnership Record: 212-run stand with Smriti Mandhana
Overall Achievements
Rawal’s consistency has been impressive since her international debut in December last year. She has accumulated 1,110 runs in 23 Women’s ODIs at an average of 50.45, with two centuries and seven fifties. Furthermore, she became the joint-fastest player to reach 1,000 runs in WODIs, achieving the milestone in 23 innings.
Next Steps for India
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been closely monitoring Pratika’s recovery following her injuries. With her absence, India will rely more heavily on other players, including Amanjot Kaur and Smriti Mandhana, as they prepare for their crucial semifinal match against Australia.
As India gears up for this important encounter, the team dynamics will need to adjust to compensate for the loss of Rawal’s exceptional form and contributions in the tournament.
