The Indian women’s cricket team for the ODI World Cup 2025 was announced on Tuesday. The tournament will be played in India from 30 September. This time, the selectors made some surprising decisions. Fast bowler Renuka Thakur has returned to the squad after regaining fitness, while aggressive opener Shafali Verma has been left out.
Harmanpreet to lead, Mandhana vice-captain
In the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup, Harmanpreet Kaur will captain the side, with Smriti Mandhana chosen as vice-captain.
Shafali left out
Renuka Thakur’s fitness had been a concern for a long time, but she has finally been included in the World Cup squad. On the other hand, the exclusion of Shafali Verma is seen as a bold decision, as her attacking batting has often been a big advantage for India.
Reward for Pratika Rawal
Young top-order batter Pratika Rawal has also been given an opportunity. She has been consistent, scoring runs in her last 14 ODIs, which helped her secure a place in the team. The management sees her as a stabilising force in India’s batting lineup.
ODI World Cup begins 30 September
The ODI World Cup will begin on 30 September in India. Under Harmanpreet Kaur’s leadership, the Indian team will aim to win the title on home soil.
Squad also announced for Australia series
The selectors have also named a 15-member squad for the three-match ODI series against Australia, starting on 14 September. This series will be treated as an important preparation ahead of the World Cup.
Indian Teams
World Cup Squad: Harmanpreet Kaur (Captain), Smriti Mandhana (Vice-Captain), Pratika Rawal, Harleen Deol, Deepti Sharma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Renuka Singh Thakur, Arundhati Reddy, Richa Ghosh (WK), Kranti Gaur, Amanjot Kaur, Radha Yadav, Shri Charani, Yastika Bhatia (WK), Sneh Rana.
Squad vs Australia: Harmanpreet Kaur (Captain), Smriti Mandhana (Vice-Captain), Pratika Rawal, Harleen Deol, Deepti Sharma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Renuka Singh Thakur, Arundhati Reddy, Richa Ghosh (WK), Kranti Gaur, Sayali Satghare, Radha Yadav, Shri Charani, Yastika Bhatia (WK), Sneh Rana.