Team India have suffered a major setback ahead of their Women’s World Cup semifinal against Australia, as opener Pratika Rawal has been ruled out of the tournament due to injury (Officially confirmed by BCCI).
The incident took place during India’s last league match against Bangladesh at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. While fielding near the boundary, Rawal slipped on the wet surface and fell awkwardly. She was seen in visible pain and had to be helped off the field by the support staff. The rain-affected game was later abandoned, and Rawal did not return to bat or field again.
Following the match, scans confirmed an injury to her leg, and the 25-year-old was advised rest by the medical team. Rawal is also scheduled to consult an independent doctor for her final assessment, but early signs suggest she won’t be fit in time for the knockout stage.
This is a huge blow for India, especially with the semifinal against Australia set to be played at the same venue on October 30. Rawal has been in outstanding form this year, scoring her maiden World Cup century against New Zealand and becoming the joint-fastest to 1000 runs in women’s ODIs. Her consistency at the top has been one of India’s biggest strengths throughout the tournament.
Adding to India’s worries, wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh is also under observation after injuring her finger during the New Zealand game. With Richa sitting out against Bangladesh, Uma Chetry made her debut behind the stumps.
The final league match in Navi Mumbai was heavily disrupted by rain, reducing the contest to 27 overs per side. During the game, the uncovered outfield sections became slippery, which eventually led to Rawal’s unfortunate injury when she tried to turn sharply while chasing a boundary at deep mid-wicket.
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Who can fill Pratika Rawal’s place ahead of Semis
As India prepare for the high-pressure semifinal, there are now questions about who will open alongside Smriti Mandhana. Former India captain Mithali Raj suggested that Harleen Deol could be promoted to the top of the order to fill the void left by Rawal’s absence.
India will now need to regroup quickly, both mentally and strategically, as they face a dominant Australian side for a spot in the World Cup final.
Written By:- Manjunath S