India’s women’s cricket team has unveiled its 16-player squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia in December. The announcement included significant changes, with opener Shafali Verma omitted due to her prolonged struggles in the 50-over format.
Shafali Verma Left Out
Shafali Verma, known for her aggressive batting, has been dropped following a string of poor performances in ODIs. Despite her success in Tests and T20Is, the 20-year-old has failed to make an impact in 2023, scoring just 108 runs in six matches without a half-century since 2022.
Her recent reinstatement to the ODI side in June alongside Smriti Mandhana didn’t yield the desired results, and with India preparing to host the ODI World Cup next year, the management appears to have made a bold decision to explore other options at the top of the order. This marks the second time within a year that Shafali has been dropped from the ODI team, with her last exclusion occurring in December 2022.
Harleen Deol and Other New Faces
Harleen Deol has earned a recall to the squad, offering a fresh option in the batting lineup. Wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh also returns, strengthening India’s middle order. Other new additions to the team include Minnu Mani, Titas Sadhu, and Priya Punia, who have been rewarded for their recent performances.
These changes come after India’s 2-1 series victory against New Zealand in October. Alongside Shafali, Uma Chetry, Dayalan Hemalatha, Shreyanka Patil, and Sayali Satghare have been left out of the squad for the Australia series.
Leadership Retained
Harmanpreet Kaur will continue as the captain of the ODI side despite scrutiny over her leadership in T20Is, following India’s early exit from the T20 World Cup in October. Smriti Mandhana retains her role as vice-captain, providing stability in the leadership group.
Match Venues and ICC Women’s Championship
The series, part of the ICC Women’s Championship, will kick off with two matches at Allan Border Field in Brisbane before concluding at the iconic WACA Ground in Perth. The tour presents a crucial opportunity for India to fine-tune their preparations ahead of hosting the ODI World Cup next year.
India Squad for Australia Tour
Harmanpreet Kaur (C)
Smriti Mandhana (VC)
Priya Punia
Jemimah Rodrigues
Harleen Deol
Yastika Bhatia (WK)
Richa Ghosh (WK)
Tejal Hasabnis
Deepti Sharma
Minnu Mani
Priya Mishra
Radha Yadav
Titas Sadhu
Arundhati Reddy
Renuka Singh Thakur
Saima Thakor
India will aim to build on their recent success and test their revamped lineup against the defending world champions in what promises to be an exciting series.
