India’s dynamic opening batter Shafali Verma reclaimed her spot in the national team after a seven-month hiatus, as selectors named her in the T20I squad for the upcoming five-match series against England. The highly anticipated series begins on June 28 at Trent Bridge and will test India’s mettle in English conditions.
Despite her return to the shortest format, Shafali did not make it to the ODI squad. Selectors overlooked her for the three-match ODI leg of the tour, reflecting her mixed performances in the 50-over format. Shafali has struggled for consistency since October 2024, a dip in form that eventually pushed her out of the national reckoning.
However, the 20-year-old stamped her authority in the domestic scene and the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025. She emerged as the fourth-highest run-scorer in the tournament. Only international stars Nat Sciver-Brunt, Ellyse Perry, and Hayley Matthews scored more than her. Among Indian players, Shafali led the charts, proving that her aggressive style still holds value in T20 cricket. Her strike rate and fearless approach at the top of the order continue to make her a dangerous weapon in the shortest format.
Selectors recognized her recent exploits and reinstated her in the T20I setup, where she has consistently delivered fireworks in the past. India will bank on her to give them explosive starts as they aim to dominate the English bowlers in their own backyard.
Meanwhile, wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia also marked her return to the national fold. A wrist injury during the Women’s Big Bash League last November forced her out of action, but she has since recovered and regained fitness. Unlike Shafali, Yastika secured places in both the T20I and ODI squads. Her solid technique and adaptability across formats convinced selectors of her readiness.
Yastika brings reliability in the middle order and strengthens the team’s options behind the stumps. Alongside her, Richa Ghosh continues to hold her spot in both squads. The two wicketkeepers offer a healthy mix of explosiveness and composure.
India’s think tank, led by head coach Amol Muzumdar, opted for continuity in leadership. Harmanpreet Kaur will lead both the T20I and ODI teams. Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana, an experienced campaigner, will assist her in both formats. Their partnership brings stability and direction to a squad that features a promising blend of youth and experience.
One of the biggest talking points from the ODI squad announcement revolves around young Pratika Rawal. The 19-year-old opener has created waves in recent months with her blistering form in the Tri-Series held in Sri Lanka. There, she shattered a long-standing record held by Charlotte Edwards, becoming the fastest batter in women’s ODI history to score 500 runs. Rawal took only eight innings to reach the milestone, bettering Edwards’ previous record of nine innings.
Rawal’s fearless stroke play and mature temperament at the crease caught the attention of selectors. Her inclusion in the ODI side reflects India’s intent to invest in fresh talent with long-term potential. She could well be a crucial figure in the upcoming 50-over fixtures scheduled at Southampton, London, and Chester-le-Street.
Alongside Rawal, India’s ODI squad includes familiar names such as Harleen Deol, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Deepti Sharma. Each of them plays a distinct role—Harleen brings stability and athleticism, Jemimah anchors the middle order with flair, and Deepti offers balance with her all-round capabilities.
Sneh Rana, the experienced spinner, continues to feature in both squads, highlighting her value in providing control in the middle overs. Her off-spin and ability to contribute useful runs make her a key cog in India’s plans.
India’s selectors have also rewarded performances from the domestic circuit. Names like Sree Charani, Shuchi Upadhyay, and Sayali Satghare appear in both squads, underlining the selection committee’s commitment to building bench strength. These players have shown promise in recent domestic tournaments and now have the opportunity to make a mark on the international stage.
Amanjot Kaur and Arundhati Reddy, both known for their pace and utility with the bat, will handle fast-bowling responsibilities. Kranti Gaud, another pace option, also finds a place in both line-ups. Their presence ensures India doesn’t lack firepower in the pace department, which could be critical in English conditions.
India named a 15-member T20I squad and a 16-player ODI squad. With the tour structured to begin with the T20Is and followed by the ODIs, the team management can test bench options and rotate players according to form and fitness.
The five-match T20I series, beginning at Trent Bridge, will serve as a vital litmus test ahead of the Women’s T20 World Cup next year. India will look to fine-tune combinations, build momentum, and address long-standing concerns, such as death-over execution and top-order consistency.
For Shafali Verma, this series offers a chance to reclaim her place as India’s premier T20 opener. Her absence from the ODI squad may sting, but her inclusion in the T20 setup presents an opportunity to make a strong statement. Consistent performances could not only cement her spot but also put her back in contention for longer formats.
As for Yastika Bhatia, this tour could define her comeback. She returns with renewed energy and will aim to reestablish herself as the mainstay wicketkeeper across formats. Her duel with Richa Ghosh—friendly but competitive—will add depth to India’s bench.
Pratika Rawal’s ODI debut will be closely watched. With form on her side and a record to her name, she steps into a team searching for solid openers who can build innings and anchor chases. Her emergence could offer India a long-term solution in the top order.
The tour of England promises to be an engaging contest. India enters the series with a rejuvenated squad, bolstered by key returns and exciting new prospects. With a leadership core of Harmanpreet and Mandhana, the team possesses the tactical nous to outmaneuver England.
Now, with players like Shafali, Yastika, and Rawal returning or rising through the ranks, India’s campaign holds not only strategic value but emotional resonance. Each of these players brings their own narrative of struggle, resilience, and comeback—elements that could spark a successful summer for Indian women’s cricket.
Fixtures Overview:
- T20Is: 5 matches starting June 28, Trent Bridge
- ODIs: 3 matches in Southampton, London, and Chester-le-Street
India has the talent, experience, and hunger. If they execute their plans effectively, this England tour could become a defining chapter in their journey to the 2026 ICC Women’s World Cup.
