The Neety David led selection panel announced India’s squad for the Women’s World Cup 2025 on Tuesday. In a selection meeting attended by captain Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana, a 15-player squad was named for the home tournament. Shafali Verma was the biggest miss, with the Indian opener dropped for his lacklustre form with the bat.
No Shafali Verma at Women’s World Cup 2025
India announced a strong and settled squad for the upcoming home Women’s World Cup. Shafali Verma was the most notable omission, with the opener failing to find a spot in the squad. The 21-year-old has been a regular for India across formats since her debut as a 16-year-old. However, her stocks have dipped in the recent past.
Verma averages just 23 in her ODI career and eventually her inconsistency cost her a place in the side. The Neetu David led panel continued to back Pratika Rawal who made a bright start to her career. Rawal averages 54 in her short career and has become a vital cog at the top of the order.
Shafali was dropped from the ODIs last year in the ODI series against New Zealand, paving way for Rawal to impress. The 24-year-old tallied 703 runs in 14 games, including a stellar 154 against Ireland. Verma played the India A series just before the squad announcement, but managed only 1 50+ score in 3 games.
End of the road for Shafali?
Not quiet. The Delhi Capitals star is just 21 and has a better part of her career in front of her. Selector Neetu David clarified that Verma has a long future ahead of her, despite missing out on successive ICC events.
“Shafali played the Australia A series. She’s in the system, not like she’s not. We’ve got our eyes on her. Hope she plays a lot more and garners experience, it’ll help serve India in the 50-overs format,” David said in her press conference.
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