New Delhi : Hosts India on Tuesday announced their 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, set to be played from September 30 to November 2 across home venues.
The side will be led by Harmanpreet Kaur, who captains India for the first time in a 50-over World Cup. Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana brings consistency at the top, while newcomers such as Pratika Rawal and Kranti Gaud add fresh energy.
The biggest surprise remains the exclusion of Shafali Verma, who despite a strong T20I series against England, missed out due to inconsistent ODI returns. India will instead rely on Mandhana and Rawal to open.
With Richa Ghosh and Yastika Bhatia both included, India enjoy flexibility in the wicket-keeping department. The spin attack looks formidable for subcontinental conditions, featuring Deepti Sharma, Sneh Rana, Radha Yadav and left-arm spinner Sree Charani, who impressed on debut earlier this year.
The squad also boasts experienced all-rounders like Amanjot Kaur and Arundhati Reddy, alongside pace option Renuka Singh Thakur. The middle order, anchored by Jemimah Rodrigues and skipper Harmanpreet, carries the firepower to deliver match-winning knocks.
India open their campaign against Sri Lanka after a preparatory home ODI series against Australia. Eight years after their heartbreak in the 2017 Lord’s final, the Harmanpreet-led side now have momentum, home advantage, and a golden chance to lift their maiden Women’s Cricket World Cup.
Squad: Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Smriti Mandhana (VC), Pratika Rawal, Harleen Deol, Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh, Yastika Bhatia, Renuka Singh Thakur, Deepti Sharma, Sneh Rana, Sree Charani, Radha Yadav, Amanjot Kaur, Arundhati Reddy, Kranti Gaud.
