October 27, 2025

In a thrilling turn of events, India has brought in young star Shafali Verma to replace the injured Pratika Rawal for the Women’s World Cup semi-final against Australia. Rawal, a key batter, suffered an ankle injury while trying to stop a boundary during India's last group match against Bangladesh at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. The 25-year-old opener slipped on the wet outfield and was unable to bat in that match. Rawal has been a powerhouse for India this tournament, scoring 308 runs in six innings at an impressive average of 51.33. Only fellow opener Smriti Mandhana has scored more runs than her so far. Due to Rawal’s injury, India quickly moved to get permission from the International Cricket Council (ICC) to make this important squad change. The ICC’s event technical committee gave the green light for Shafali Verma to join the team. Though Verma hasn't played a one-day international for India since October 2024, she has kept busy playing 50-over cricket with India A in recent months. The 21-year-old was not in the original World Cup squad but now has a golden chance to prove her mettle on the big stage in the crucial semi-final on October 30. While Rawal's injury leaves a gap, India has other options too. Amanjot Kaur stepped up to open the innings when Rawal had to leave during the Bangladesh match. Other batters like Uma Chetry and Jemimah Rodrigues are also waiting in the wings to partner with top scorer Smriti Mandhana at the top of the order. This dramatic change adds spice to an already exciting World Cup. Fans will be eager to see how Shafali Verma performs under the spotlight against arch-rivals Australia. Will she deliver fireworks or will the pressure get the better of her? Stay tuned for a cricket battle full of thrill and passion!

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Tags: Shafali verma, Pratika rawal, Women's world cup, India cricket, Semi-final, Australia,