The Women’s Selection Committee has unveiled a 16-member squad for India’s upcoming ODI series against Australia. With Harmanpreet Kaur leading the team and Smriti Mandhana serving as her deputy. A significant highlight of the announcement is the exclusion of explosive opener Shafali Verma, who failed to impress in the recent home series against New Zealand. Shafali managed just 56 runs across three innings, leading to her omission.
In her absence, the opening slot alongside Mandhana is expected to be filled by either Yastika Bhatia or Priya Punia.
Another notable development is the return of Harleen Deol to the squad after nearly a year-long absence due to injury. Harleen last played in an ODI series against Australia at home in December 2022.
Schedule and Significance
The three-match ODI series will begin at Brisbane’s Allan Border Field, hosting the first two matches on December 5 and 8. The final game will take place on December 11 in Perth.
This series is part of the ICC Women’s Championship. A crucial pathway for direct qualification to the 2025 ODI World Cup. Teams are required to play eight three-match series during the championship cycle. At its conclusion, the top five teams and hosts India will secure World Cup berths. With the remaining five spots to be decided through the Cricket World Cup Qualifier.
India Women’s ODI Squad
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.
The series promises intense competition as India aims to secure valuable points in their World Cup qualification campaign.
Australia Women tour of India, 2023-24
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