India’s dynamic opener Shafali Verma has been left out of the squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia due to a poor run of form. Verma, who scored just 56 runs in the recent series against New Zealand, has struggled with her performance, with her last ODI half-century coming in July 2022.
Another notable exclusion from the 16-member squad is offspinner Shreyanka Patil, who missed the New Zealand series due to shin splints. Patil, who had recently recovered from a hand injury, did not feature in the T20 World Cup either. D. Hemalatha, Uma Chetry, and Sayali Satgare are also missing from the squad that triumphed over New Zealand.
The squad for the series includes Harmanpreet Kaur as captain and Smriti Mandhana as vice-captain. Other members are Priya Punia, Jemimah Rodrigues, Yastika Bhatia, Richa Ghosh, Tejal Hasabnis, Deepti Sharma, Minnu Mani, Priya Mishra, Radha Yadav, Titas Sadhu, Arundhati Reddy, Renuka Singh Thakur, and Saima Thakor.
In exciting news, Harleen Deol makes a return to the squad after recovering from a knee injury that had kept her out of action since December 2023. Richa Ghosh is also back in the squad after missing the New Zealand series due to exams. However, Asha Sobhana and Pooja Vastrakar, who were injured during the T20 World Cup, are still absent from the squad.
Selectors have rewarded Minnu Mani with her first call-up to the ODI squad and included fast bowler Titas Sadhu. Sadhu, who previously impressed in T20Is against Australia and Bangladesh, has recovered from an injury that required rehabilitation at the NCA. Mani, who led India A against Australia A earlier this year, has been recognized for her all-round contributions with both bat and ball.
Tejal Hasabnis, who played a crucial knock of 42 in the first ODI against New Zealand, retains her place in the squad. Priya Puniya, who last played in a home ODI against South Africa, has also been welcomed back to the squad.
The series schedule is as follows:
– 1st ODI on December 5 at Allan Border Field, Brisbane
– 2nd ODI on December 8 at Allan Border Field, Brisbane
– 3rd ODI on December 11 at WACA, Perth
Fans are eagerly anticipating the series as the Indian squad looks to make a mark against Australia. With new faces and returning players, the team is set to bring a fresh dynamic to the matches ahead. Stay tuned for exciting cricket action as India takes on Australia in the upcoming ODI series.
India’s Squad Selection for the ODI Series Against Australia
The exclusion of Shafali Verma from the upcoming ODI series against Australia has raised eyebrows among cricket fans. Verma, known for her aggressive batting style, has been a key player for India in the T20 format. However, her recent struggles with form in ODI cricket have led to her omission from the squad. This decision underscores the team management’s focus on consistency and performance in selecting the best possible combination for the series.
The absence of offspinner Shreyanka Patil due to injury has also impacted the squad composition. Patil’s skill with the ball has been instrumental in India’s bowling attack, and her recovery will be crucial for the team’s future campaigns. In her absence, the selectors have opted for other spin-bowling options to maintain a balanced squad against the formidable Australian side.
The return of Harleen Deol and Richa Ghosh to the squad brings depth and experience to the team. Deol’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball adds versatility, while Ghosh’s aggressive batting style can provide impetus to India’s middle order. Their inclusion signals a positive development for the team, especially after their absence in recent series.
The selection of Minnu Mani and Titas Sadhu reflects the selectors’ emphasis on rewarding domestic performances and nurturing young talent. Mani’s leadership skills and all-round abilities make her a promising prospect for the team’s future, while Sadhu’s pace and aggression add a new dimension to the bowling attack. Their inclusion highlights the depth of talent in Indian women’s cricket and the opportunities available for young players to make their mark at the international level.
Tejal Hasabnis’ consistent performances and Priya Punia’s return to the squad showcase the competition for spots in the playing XI. With established players fighting for positions alongside emerging talents, the Indian team is poised to field a competitive lineup that can challenge Australia in the upcoming series.
The series schedule promises exciting cricket action across different venues in Australia. The matches at Allan Border Field in Brisbane and the WACA in Perth provide varying conditions that will test the skills and adaptability of both teams. Fans can expect intense contests and thrilling moments as India takes on the reigning champions in their backyard.
As the Indian squad gears up for the ODI series against Australia, the blend of experience, youth, and talent sets the stage for a captivating battle on the cricket field. Stay tuned for riveting cricket action as India aims to make a statement against a formidable opponent in the upcoming series.
