India were handed a major blow during their final league-stage clash of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 against Bangladesh at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, as in-form opener Pratika Rawal sustained a knee and ankle injury while fielding.
The incident occurred on the final ball of the 21st over of Bangladesh’s innings, shortly after play had resumed following a two-and-a-half-hour rain delay. Fielding at deep midwicket, Rawal overran while chasing the ball and appeared to twist her right ankle on the damp turf before collapsing in visible pain.
The conditions at the venue played a part in the mishap. Unseasonal rain had delayed the start by nearly two hours, and despite efforts from the groundstaff, large patches of the outfield remained uncovered and damp. Rawal’s injury took place in one such area.
Limping off the field with the help of support staff, she did not return for the remainder of Bangladesh’s innings or come out to bat in the run chase. Following the incident, the BCCI issued an update, saying, “Team India all-rounder Pratika Rawal sustained an injury to her knee and ankle while fielding in the 1st innings against Bangladesh. The BCCI Medical Team is closely monitoring her progress.”
The setback comes as a concern for India ahead of their semifinal clash against defending champions Australia on October 30. Rawal, who debuted in December 2024, has enjoyed a remarkable rise in international cricket. She scored her maiden World Cup century in the previous match against New Zealand at the same venue and became the joint-fastest to 1000 runs in women’s ODIs.
India’s injury list had already grown when Richa Ghosh sustained a finger injury in the previous match, leading to a debut for Uma Chetry against Bangladesh. Rawal’s absence leaves India with limited options at the top of the order. With no backup opener in the main squad, selectors may look to the reserves, where Tejal Hasabnis is the only available batter.
The 25-year-old has been a key contributor this year with consistent scores of 37, 31, 37, 75, 6, and 122, and across 23 ODIs, she has amassed 1,110 runs (HS 154) and taken 6 wickets, establishing herself as one of India’s most valuable players heading into the knockout stage.
Loves all things female cricket