With Pratika Rawal’s injury casting doubt over her participation in the upcoming semi-final, India find themselves in a tricky position when it comes to choosing the right opening partner for Smriti Mandhana. The rain-curtailed encounter against Bangladesh not only ended with uncertainty on the scoreboard but also left the Indian camp pondering their top-order combination ahead of the big match on October 30.
Mithali Raj Suggests Harleen Deol as Ideal Opening Partner
During the broadcast of the Bangladesh game on JioStar, Indian cricket legend Mithali Raj weighed in on the ongoing debate. She suggested that Harleen Deol, who usually bats at number three, could be a smart choice to open alongside Smriti Mandhana. According to Mithali, Harleen’s experience of walking in early and handling the new ball makes her a natural fit for the role.
“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,” Mithali said.
“Ideally, today was a great opportunity for Harleen to open and build that equation with Smriti, assuming Pratika might not be available. If Pratika is fit, the same batting line-up continues. But sending Amanjot to open was something I didn’t quite understand,” she added.
Mithali’s comments highlight India’s ongoing struggle to find consistency at the top. While all-rounder Amanjot Kaur was asked to open against Bangladesh, the move didn’t quite convince the former skipper, who felt Amanjot could have been more effective at number three.
Shafali Verma’s Return Adds New Selection Angle
Adding another layer to India’s selection headache is the return of explosive batter Shafali Verma. The young opener, who last played an ODI in 2024 against New Zealand, has been in stellar form in domestic competitions and for India A. Her inclusion gives the management another opening option, but it also poses a tough question — whether to back experience or take a chance on Shafali’s attacking approach in a high-stakes game.
The situation could become even more complicated if wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh fails to recover from her injury in time. If that happens, Uma Chetry will likely take the gloves, slightly weakening India’s batting depth.
As India prepare to face Australia in the second semi-final on October 30 (Thursday), the team management faces a crucial decision — whether to back Harleen’s consistency, gamble on Shafali’s aggression, or hope for Pratika’s quick recovery. Whatever the choice, the opening combination could very well define India’s fortunes in this must-win clash.
