India suffered a major setback ahead of the Women’s World Cup 2025 semi-final against unbeaten Australia, as star opener Pratika Rawal was ruled out due to a severe ankle sprain with a fracture. The injury occurred while fielding on the boundary during the rain-hit game against Bangladesh in Mumbai.
Pratika Rawal’s Painful Exit
Rawal, the tournament’s second-highest run-scorer with 308 runs, has been a key part of India’s most successful opening duo with Smriti Mandhana. Together, they have an impressive average of 78.21, including seven century stands. Her absence disrupts India’s strongest combination and challenges skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, who led India to a famous 2017 semi-final win over Australia.
With Pratika out, India must find a new partner for Smriti. The likely options are Harleen Deol, Amanjot Kaur, or Jemimah Rodrigues as the team prepares for its toughest test yet in the 2025 World Cup knockout stage.
