India Women will shift their focus to the One-Day International (ODI) series against England after clinching the T20I series 3-2. The much-anticipated ODI series kicks off on July 16 (Wednesday) at Southampton, followed by matches at Lord’s (July 19) and Chester-le-Street (July 22).
Team India Faces Good Selection Headaches Ahead of ODIs
India’s head coach Amol Muzumdar is optimistic about the team’s depth and talent heading into the 50-over format. Reflecting on the squad’s growing bench strength, Muzumdar said,
“There’s a lot of depth in this Indian line-up — a good headache to have as a coaching staff.”
One of the key questions ahead of the ODI opener is who will partner Smriti Mandhana at the top of the order. With Shafali Verma left out of the ODI squad, the opening spot now goes to Pratika Raval. The 22-year-old has made a stunning start to her ODI career, averaging 63.80 with five centuries in just 11 matches.
Despite Shafali’s omission, Muzumdar confirmed that she remains in the selectors’ plans as the Women’s ODI World Cup looms large.
“Shafali has been a terrific player. There’s no doubt she’ll be in the mix and part of India’s core group. But right now, Pratika is making a strong case and has left a big mark in just six months,” he added.
Shree Charani Emerges as Key Bowling Talent
Another rising star in the spotlight is left-arm spinner Shree Charani, who impressed with 10 wickets in the T20I series. Muzumdar credits her rise to the Women’s Premier League (WPL).
“She’s been a fantastic find from the WPL. We were looking for a left-arm spinner, and she has fitted the bill perfectly,” said the coach.
Charani’s growth highlights the WPL’s role as a nurturing ground for emerging Indian talent. Her presence adds a new dimension to India’s spin attack, especially in English conditions that can favor slower bowlers later in the innings.
Road to the World Cup
As the Indian team begins this ODI series, the focus is clearly on building momentum and finalizing combinations ahead of the Women’s ODI World Cup. With a mix of experienced names like Mandhana and promising youngsters such as Raval and Charani, India’s squad looks balanced and competitive.
Fans can look forward to an exciting series as the Women in Blue take on England, with plenty at stake in preparation for global cricket’s biggest stage.