Ravi Thakur - Monday, Oct 27, 2025The semi-finals of the Women's World Cup 2025 begin on October 29th. The Indian team will face Australia on October 30th. However, before that, India's powerful opener Pratika Rawal has been injured, forcing her to miss the World Cup. She suffered the injury while fielding in the match against Bangladesh on October 26th.
Pratika Rawal slipped while fielding near the boundary during the rain-affected India vs. Bangladesh match. She twisted her foot, injuring her knee and ankle, and was then carried off the field by support staff. Pratika was unable to return to the field. Meanwhile, the India vs. Bangladesh match ended in a draw due to persistent rain.
Pratika Raval's exclusion from the World Cup is a major blow to Team India. Her partnership with Smriti Mandhana has provided Team India with strong starts in most World Cup matches. Pratika is currently the second-highest run-scorer in the tournament, having scored 308 runs so far. Her opening partner, Smriti Mandhana, is in first place, having scored 365 runs.
Team India now faces the question of who will open the innings alongside Smriti Mandhana in the semifinal. Harleen Deol, who typically bats at No. 3, could be an option, but given her experience with the new ball, she could be promoted to the opening position. All-rounder Amanjot Kaur, who scored an unbeaten 15 in the match against Bangladesh, could also be considered.
Harleen Deol averages 36 at No. 3, so there's little chance of her being replaced. If Amanjot Kaur opens the innings, a new player could be added to the lower order.
Also Read: Most successful bowler in T20 Internationals, 2025
