In recent developments, Shafali Verma has been omitted from India's squad for the three One Day Internationals against Australia, a decision influenced by her continued struggle with form. Conversely, Richa Ghosh makes a return to the team after missing the previous home series against New Zealand due to her board examinations. The selection process has also brought in batters Priya Punia and Harleen Deol, alongside offspinner Minnu Mani and fast bowler Titas Sadhu, to complete the 16-member roster designated for the ODIs scheduled for December 5, 8, and 11 in Brisbane and Perth.
Shafali Verma's recent performances in One Day cricket have been underwhelming. Throughout the current calendar year, she has accumulated a mere 108 runs across six matches, averaging 18. This consistent lack of form led to her exclusion, reminiscent of previous instances when her position was questioned. During the last series against Australia at home in December 2023, she was unable to cement her place in the side, which subsequently saw Yastika Bhatia and Smriti Mandhana opening the innings together. Upon her absence, Yastika is likely to take the opening role again, while Priya Punia is expected to vie for the No. 3 batting position.
Punia's inclusion seems strategic, as she has gained valuable experience since making her ODI return against South Africa in June of this year, following impressive performances in domestic cricket. Despite only featuring in one match of that series, her subsequent involvement with India A in Australia highlighted the challenges of maintaining form at the international level. Having been dropped prior to the New Zealand series in October, Punia's return will be scrutinized as she aims to prove her mettle.
Alongside Punia, Harleen Deol also resumes her position in a squad that has undergone several changes. Deol’s track record includes only ten ODIs since her debut in 2019, amassing two half-centuries; yet she has not had continuous opportunities in the squad. Her last appearance in an ODI was against Australia at home last year, which adds another layer to her selection as the team hopes to solidify its middle-order batting.
The bowling attack is expected to blend experienced players with emerging talent. Titas Sadhu and Minnu Mani, although less experienced in ODIs, have made contributions in T20Is and will support a pace battery led by Renuka Singh and Arundhati Reddy. Saima Thakor, who recently debuted, adds depth to this lineup.
Allrounder Pooja Vastrakar and legspinner Asha Sobhana are notable absentees due to resting and injury, respectively. Their exits leave a noticeable gap in the squad, necessitating that other players step up to fulfill their roles. Additionally, Tejal Hasabnis and Priya Mishra, who made impactful debuts in the series against New Zealand, have retained their spots and will be called upon to deliver crucial performances in Australia.
As the Indian team gears up for these ODIs, it is essential to note their recent triumph over New Zealand, where they clinched a 2-1 victory, reflecting positive momentum. Meanwhile, Australia approaches this series after a successful stint against Bangladesh earlier this year, where they achieved a clean sweep of three matches. The contests against India are crucial for both teams, particularly in the context of the ongoing ICC Women's Championship, where both Australia and England currently lead the standings. The pressure is on the Indian squad to perform well in front of the Australian crowd, especially considering that they automatically qualify as hosts for the upcoming 2025 World Cup.
As cricket enthusiasts in India look forward to these upcoming ODIs, the stakes are high for the players called upon to represent their country. The blend of established stars alongside newer talents provides an intriguing dynamic, with fans hopeful for a competitive display against the formidable Australian side. The stage is set for an exhilarating series, and each match promises to be a significant chapter in the ongoing narrative of women's cricket on the international stage.
India's squad for ODIs against Australia includes:
Harmanpreet Kaur (captain), Smriti Mandhana, Priya Punia, Jemimah Rodrigues, Harleen Deol, Yastika Bhatia (wicketkeeper), Richa Ghosh (wicketkeeper), Tejal Hasabnis, Deepti Sharma, Minnu Mani, Priya Mishra, Radha Yadav, Titas Sadhu, Arundhati Reddy, Renuka Singh Thakur, and Saima Thakor.