India’s Women’s ODI World Cup squad is ready for action. Announced on August 19, 2025, the 15-member team is led by Harmanpreet Kaur captain. Smriti Mandhana vice-captain supports her, bringing batting firepower. The squad blends experience with fresh talent.
Fast bowler Renuka Singh pacer returns after a stress fracture. Amanjot Kaur all-rounder is back despite a recent back injury. However, Shafali Verma exclusion shocked fans, as the explosive opener missed out. Pratika Rawal’s consistency earned her the opening spot.
The Indian women’s cricket team is set to chase their first ODI World Cup title as they have not won since the Women’s World Cup started in 1973. Hosting the tournament from September 30, 2025, adds extra motivation. Kranti Goud, bowler, and Deepti Sharma, all-rounder, strengthen the bowling attack. Richa Ghosh, the wicketkeeper, adds depth.
This article dives into India’s squad for the home World Cup advantage. We’ll explore key selections, surprises, and strategies. From India’s spin attack to batting stars, here’s what to expect. Get ready for an exciting campaign as India faces Sri Lanka first.
Why Shafali Verma Missed the World Cup Cut?
Shafali Verma’s exclusion was the biggest surprise in India’s squad. The hard-hitting opener last played an ODI in October 2024. Her recent form, including scores of 3, 3, and 41 for India A, was inconsistent. Selectors chose Pratika Rawal opener for stability.
Shafali scored 527 runs in domestic one-dayers, but it wasn’t enough. Chief selector Neetu David said Shafali remains in their plans. She’ll play for India A in a warm-up match. Her aggressive style could still shine in future ODIs.
The decision prioritized continuity. Pratika Rawal’s 703 runs in 14 ODIs impressed selectors. Her partnership with Smriti Mandhana, vice-captain, averages 77.57, a record for India. Shafali’s absence may reduce powerplay aggression, but Rawal’s reliability won out.
Can Shafali Bounce Back?
Shafali’s exclusion isn’t the end. Neetu David emphasized her long-term potential. Playing more domestic games will build her experience. She’s part of the India A squad for warm-ups.
Her T20I form, with 304 runs in WPL 2025, shows promise. Shafali needs consistent ODI runs to reclaim her spot. Fans hope she’ll return stronger. The women’s cricket strategy values her flair for big tournaments.
Renuka Singh’s Return: A Boost for India
Renuka Singh, the pacer, is back after missing the 2025 ODIs due to injury. Her stress fracture kept her out since March. She’ll play the India vs Australia ODIs starting September 14. Her 32 wickets in 17 ODIs make her vital.
Renuka’s new-ball skills are unmatched. She’ll lead India’s pace attack in the home World Cup advantage. Alongside the bowler Kranti Goud, she strengthens the powerplay. Her return is a major boost for Harmanpreet Kaur captain.
The selectors worked with the BCCI Centre of Excellence to ensure her fitness. Renuka’s experience will guide younger bowlers. Her role in the Australia series will test her readiness. India expects big performances from her.
Why Renuka Is India’s X-Factor?
Renuka’s ability to swing the ball is key. She’ll exploit Indian pitches with Kranti Goud bowler. Her experience in big matches adds confidence. The women’s cricket strategy relies on her early breakthroughs.
If Renuka stays fit, India’s bowling looks lethal. Her comeback aligns with India’s goal to dominate at home. Fans are excited to see her lead the attack. The World Cup is her stage to shine.
Amanjot Kaur’s All-Round Impact
Amanjot Kaur, an all-rounder, is a smart pick for India. She missed the last two England ODIs due to a back injury. Rested for the India vs Australia ODIs, she’ll be ready for the World Cup. Her versatility is a game-changer.
Amanjot’s medium-pace bowling troubles batters. Her 13 wickets in nine ODIs show her skill. She also scored a match-winning 63 in T20Is. Her batting adds depth to India’s lower order.
She replaces the injured Pooja Vastrakar. Amanjot’s cutters suit Indian pitches. Her WPL 2025 performances for Mumbai Indians earned her spot. India expects her to shine in both departments.
How Amanjot Balances the Team?
Amanjot’s all-around skills boost the Indian women’s cricket team. She supports Renuka Singh’s pace in the pace attack. Her batting can stabilize or accelerate innings. This flexibility is key to women’s cricket strategy.
Her recovery at the BCCI Centre of Excellence ensures fitness. Amanjot’s role as a second seamer is crucial. She’ll complement India’s spin attack in the middle overs. Fans are eager for her World Cup debut.
How Big a Threat Is India in the Women’s World Cup?
India’s Women’s ODI World Cup squad is a powerhouse. Harmanpreet Kaur, the captain, leads a balanced team. Their recent wins against England and Sri Lanka show form. Hosting the home World Cup advantage adds confidence.
The batting, with Smriti Mandhana as vice-captain and Pratika Rawal as opener, is solid. Deepti Sharma, an all-rounder, and Richa Ghosh, a wicketkeeper, add depth. The bowling, led by Renuka Singh, is versatile.
India’s spin attack with Deepti, Sneh Rana, and Radha Yadav suits Indian pitches. Kranti Goud, bowler, and Amanjot strengthen the pace unit. India’s 2017 final run proves its potential. They’re favorites to win.
Can India Finally Win the Title?
India’s women’s cricket strategy is built for success. Their spin-heavy attack will dominate at home. The batting lineup can chase or set big totals. Home crowd support will lift the team.
Rivals like Australia and England are strong. Yet, India’s recent form gives it an edge. The home World Cup advantage could be decisive. Fans believe this is India’s best shot at glory.
Key Players to Watch in India’s Squad
India’s women’s cricket team boasts game-changers. Harmanpreet Kaur, the captain, is a clutch performer, averaging 37.67 in ODIs. Smriti Mandhana, the vice-captain, anchors the top order with flair. Her 703 runs with Rawal make them a lethal pair.
Renuka Singh, the pacer, leads the bowling with swing and pace. Deepti Sharma, an all-rounder, spins webs and contributes with the bat. Kranti Goud, the bowler, stunned England with a six-wicket haul. Richa Ghosh, the wicketkeeper, brings explosive batting.
Radha Yadav and Sneh Rana bolster India’s spin attack. Jemimah Rodrigues adds stability at No. 5. Yastika Bhatia’s recent form makes her a key backup. These players drive India’s women’s cricket strategy.
Who Will Shine Brightest?
Harmanpreet Kaur, the captain, could define the tournament. Her leadership and big-match experience are vital. Renuka Singh, the pacer, may dominate with early wickets. Smriti Mandhana, the vice-captain, is expected to pile up runs.
Deepti Sharma, an all-rounder, offers balance with bat and ball. Kranti Goud, the bowler, could be a breakout star. Fans are excited for these players to lead. Their performances will shape India’s World Cup dreams.
How Hosting the World Cup Boosts Women’s Cricket
The home World Cup advantage is huge for India. Hosting from September 30, 2025, inspires the Indian women’s cricket team. Packed stadiums will cheer every run and wicket. This energy fuels the players.
The tournament showcases women’s cricket to millions. Young girls will see stars like Harmanpreet Kaur, captain, and Smriti Mandhana, vice-captain. This visibility grows the sport’s popularity. More girls may take up cricket.
BCCI’s focus on infrastructure, like the Centre of Excellence, helps. It ensures players like Amanjot Kaur, an all-rounder, recover fast. The women’s cricket strategy gains from better facilities. Hosting elevates India’s global cricket stature.
Will This Spark a Cricket Revolution?
The World Cup will inspire future cricketers. Matches in iconic venues like Bengaluru excite fans. Increased media coverage boosts women’s cricket. The home World Cup advantage could lead to more investment.
A strong performance by India can change perceptions. It may encourage more girls to play professionally. The Indian women’s cricket team could start a legacy. This tournament is a turning point for the sport.
Conclusion: India’s Golden Chance at Glory
India’s Women’s ODI World Cup squad is ready to shine. Harmanpreet Kaur, the captain, leads a balanced team. Renuka Singh, a pacer, and Amanjot Kaur, an all-rounder, strengthen the lineup. Shafali Verma’s exclusion was a tough call, but the squad looks solid.
The home World Cup advantage gives India a massive boost. Smriti Mandhana, vice-captain, and Deepti Sharma, all-rounder, bring star power. Kranti Goud bowler and India’s spin attack suit Indian pitches. Fans are buzzing with excitement.
The India vs Australia ODIs will fine-tune preparations. India’s past final runs in 2005 and 2017 fuel hope. The women’s cricket strategy focuses on continuity and balance. This could be India’s first World Cup win.
With Richa Ghosh as the wicketkeeper and Pratika Rawal as the opener, the batting is deep. Hosting the tournament adds pressure but also opportunity. India’s women’s cricket team is poised for history. Get ready for an unforgettable World Cup.
