If pratika

ODI World Cup: Looking ahead to India’s high-stakes 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup semi-final against Australia, former skipper Mithali Raj has questioned who would open with vice-captain Smriti Mandhana if Pratika Rawal isn’t fit enough to feature in the game, slated to take place at DY Patil Stadium on October 30.

Before India’s final league match of the World Cup against Bangladesh was washed out due to rain, the hosts were left with a huge concern about Pratika, who sustained a knee and ankle injury while fielding and did not come out to bat in the second innings.

"The question now is who opens with Smriti if Pratika isn’t fit to take the field on the 30th. The first option could be promoting number three, Harleen, since she’s often walked in early and is comfortable facing the new ball. The other option is Uma Chetry, but if Richa Ghosh returns as wicketkeeper, then Uma might sit out.