Indian women’s cricket has received a timely boost ahead of the high-profile Australia tour, as Pratika Rawal has officially returned to the ODI squad. The talented batter, who suffered an ankle injury during the 2025 ICC Women’s World Cup, has successfully completed her rehabilitation and is now back in contention for international action.
The announcement was confirmed through a press release from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which stated that Rawal has fully recovered after undergoing structured rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (COE). Her return adds both depth and stability to an already strong Indian lineup as they prepare to face Australia in a competitive three-match ODI series.
Injury Setback During a Historic Campaign
Rawal’s injury occurred in October during India’s triumphant World Cup campaign. In a rain-affected match against Bangladesh, she injured her ankle while fielding and was forced to leave the field mid-game. The setback ruled her out of the remainder of the tournament, including the crucial semi-final stage.
To fill the void, the team management brought in Shafali Verma as her replacement ahead of the knockout fixture. While India went on to secure the title, Rawal’s absence was felt, given the impressive form she had displayed earlier in the tournament.
Since that injury, Rawal has not featured in any competitive cricket. Instead, she focused entirely on recovery, undergoing a meticulous rehabilitation program designed to ensure full fitness and long-term stability. The BCCI’s medical and support staff monitored her progress closely at the Centre of Excellence, ensuring she regained strength, mobility, and match readiness before clearance.
A Remarkable Start to an International Career
Despite her time away from the field, Rawal’s reputation has continued to grow. Her early international performances were impactful enough to earn her a place in the BCCI’s central contracts list—a significant milestone in any cricketer’s career.
Being included in the central contracts demonstrates the board’s confidence in her long-term potential. It also highlights how strongly she had established herself before the injury disrupted her momentum.
Rawal’s technique and temperament have drawn praise from analysts and former players alike. Her ability to anchor an innings while maintaining scoring intent makes her a versatile middle-order option. With India set to face a formidable Australian side, her composure under pressure could prove invaluable.
Australia ODI Series: A Crucial Test
India’s upcoming ODI series against Australia promises to be a challenging and high-intensity contest. The series begins on February 24, with the first match scheduled in Brisbane. The second and third ODIs will be played in Hobart. Following the ODI leg, Perth will host a one-off Test match.
Australia’s home conditions traditionally favor pace and bounce, testing both technique and adaptability. Rawal’s return adds flexibility to India’s batting combinations. Depending on team strategy, she can slot into various positions in the order, offering stability against Australia’s disciplined bowling attack.
India will be led by captain Harmanpreet Kaur, with vice-captain Smriti Mandhana providing experience at the top of the order. The squad also features key players such as Deepti Sharma and wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh, ensuring a balanced mix of experience and youth.
India’s Updated ODI Squad
The updated Indian squad for the Australia ODIs includes:
- Harmanpreet Kaur (Captain)
- Smriti Mandhana (Vice-Captain)
- Shafali Verma
- Renuka Thakur
- Sree Charani
- Vaishnavi Sharma
- Kranti Gaud
- Sneh Rana
- Deepti Sharma
- Richa Ghosh (Wicketkeeper)
- Uma Chetry (Wicketkeeper)
- Kashvee Gautam
- Amanjot Kaur
- Jemimah Rodrigues
- Harleen Deol
- Pratika Rawal
This combination reflects a strong batting core complemented by versatile all-rounders and a dynamic bowling attack.
Named for the One-Off Test as Well
In addition to the ODI squad, Rawal has also been named in India’s squad for the standalone Test match that follows the limited-overs series. This selection underlines the team management’s trust in her red-ball credentials as well.
Test cricket demands patience, concentration, and technical solidity—qualities Rawal has demonstrated in domestic competitions. Her inclusion in both formats indicates that selectors view her as a long-term asset across formats.
WPL Selection and Future Prospects
Rawal’s value extends beyond international cricket. She was picked up by the UP Warriorz for the 2026 Women’s Premier League (WPL). However, due to her extended recovery period, she did not feature in the competition.
Interestingly, despite being a rising star, Rawal has yet to make her Women’s T20 International debut. With fitness concerns now behind her, opportunities in the shortest format could emerge soon.
Her association with the UP Warriorz also suggests strong franchise confidence in her capabilities. As she returns to full match fitness, the WPL could become another platform for her to showcase her skills on a global stage.
What Her Return Means for India
Rawal’s comeback is more than just an addition to the squad—it’s a reinforcement of depth. Injuries are part of professional sport, but how teams manage recoveries often defines long-term success. In this case, India appears to have handled the situation prudently, allowing Rawal adequate time to regain full fitness rather than rushing her return.
Strategically, her presence allows greater flexibility in team combinations. She can stabilize innings if early wickets fall or accelerate during the middle overs. Against Australia’s disciplined attack, having such adaptability is crucial.
Moreover, her return boosts team morale. A player coming back from injury often brings renewed hunger and determination. That competitive edge can positively influence dressing-room dynamics.
A Fresh Chapter Begins
For Rawal personally, this marks the beginning of a new chapter. Recovering from an ankle injury—particularly one sustained during a major tournament—can be mentally and physically demanding. Her successful rehabilitation reflects resilience and professional discipline.
Now, the focus shifts to performance. The Australia tour will test India’s tactical preparation and mental strength. For Rawal, it presents an opportunity to re-establish rhythm and contribute meaningfully on an international platform once again.
With Brisbane set to host the series opener, all eyes will be on the team combination and whether Rawal makes the playing XI immediately. Regardless, her return to the squad is already a positive development for Indian women’s cricket.
As India prepares for a competitive series in Australian conditions, the return of Pratika Rawal adds renewed optimism. For fans and analysts alike, it will be fascinating to watch how she reintegrates into the side and builds on the promise that marked the early stages of her career.