In a significant boost ahead of a challenging overseas assignment, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed the return of Pratika Rawal to the India Women’s ODI squad for the upcoming series against Australia. The young batter, who suffered an ankle injury during India’s triumphant 2025 Women’s World Cup campaign, has completed her rehabilitation and is now fit to rejoin the national side.
Rawal’s comeback marks the end of a frustrating spell on the sidelines. The injury occurred in October during a rain-affected group-stage clash against Bangladesh, when she twisted her ankle while fielding and had to be helped off the field. It was a heartbreaking moment for a player who had been enjoying a dream start to her international journey.
Road to recovery at the centre of excellence
Following the injury, Rawal underwent an extensive rehabilitation programme at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (COE). According to the board’s official release, she has now fully recovered and has been cleared for competitive cricket.
Her absence was keenly felt during the knockout stages of the World Cup. She was replaced in the squad by Shafali Verma ahead of the semi-final, and since then, Rawal has not featured in any competitive fixture. The long recovery period kept her away from the field for months, testing her patience and resilience.
Despite the setback, Rawal’s meteoric rise before the injury ensured she remained in the spotlight. Her consistent performances had already made a strong impression, and she was subsequently included in the BCCI’s central contracts list — a testament to the faith the selectors have in her potential.
Interestingly, Rawal was also picked up by UP Warriorz for the 2026 Women’s Premier League (WPL). However, her recovery timeline meant she could not participate in the tournament. Adding to the intrigue, the talented batter is yet to make her Women’s T20I debut for India, making her international story one that is still unfolding.
Selectors have also named her in the squad for the one-off Test that follows the ODI series against Australia, underlining their long-term plans for the youngster across formats.
Tough Australian challenge awaits
India Women, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, will begin their three-match ODI series against Australia on February 24 in Brisbane. The remaining two matches will be played in Hobart, while Perth is set to host the solitary Test. The return of Rawal adds depth to a batting unit that already boasts experienced names like Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues and Shafali. With Australia known for their aggressive brand of cricket at home, India will be eager to field a balanced and confident side.
Updated India Women ODI squad
Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Smriti Mandhana (vc), Shafali Verma, Renuka Thakur, Sree Charani, Vaishnavi Sharma, Kranti Gaud, Sneh Rana, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), Uma Chetry (wk), Kashvee Gautam, Amanjot Kaur, Jemimah Rodrigues, Harleen Deol, Pratika Rawal.
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.
