India Names Verma as Rawal’s Replacement for Semi-Final

"The semi-final against Australia will be a test for India’s batting lineup."

Shafali Verma has been called up to India’s squad for the semi-final of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, replacing the injured Pratika Rawal. This last-minute change comes just days before India’s crucial match against Australia.

Rawal suffered a significant ankle injury during India’s final group-stage match against Bangladesh. She twisted her ankle while trying to stop a boundary and had to leave the field with assistance. As a result, she has been ruled out of the tournament, leaving a gap in the team’s lineup.

Verma, a 21-year-old opening batter, was not part of the original main or reserve squads. However, due to Rawal’s injury, she will now join the team for the semi-final. Her experience and aggressive batting at the top of the order are expected to strengthen India’s chances.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed Rawal’s injury and Verma’s inclusion in an official statement. India will face Australia in the semi-final at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on October 30, 2025. Fans will be eagerly watching to see how Verma performs on this big stage.