India Women’s World Cup Squad 2025: Shafali Omitted, Renuka Makes Comeback

India has officially kicked off their World Cup preparations, announcing a 15-member squad for the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 on August 19.

Captain Harmanpreet Kaur and vice-captain Smriti Mandhana will lead a team that blends experience with youth, aiming for a strong campaign on home soil. The tournament begins on September 30, with India taking on Sri Lanka at a packed M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The month-long competition will culminate with the final on November 2, with matches spread across iconic venues, promising a vibrant cricketing atmosphere.

Historically, India has a proud cricketing legacy. The men’s team won the World Cup in 1983 and 2011 and finished runners-up in 2003 and 2023. The women’s team have twice come close to winning, finishing runners-up in 2005 and 2017, losing to Australia and England respectively. With home advantage this time, India’s women aim to capture their first World Cup title.

Before the World Cup, India will face Australia in a bilateral ODI series in Mullanpur and New Delhi.

Here are the key talking points from India’s Women’s World Cup squad:

Shafali Verma Omitted

Shafali Verma’s exclusion is a major surprise. Her last ODI appearance was in October 2024 against New Zealand. The selectors have instead picked Yastika Bhatia as the backup opener. While Shafali is playing for India A in Australia, she remains under close observation.

Neetu David, India’s chief selector, said: “Shafali Verma is very much part of our system. The more she plays abroad, the more experience she gains, which will help India in the 50-over format in the future.”

Renuka Singh Returns

Fast bowler Renuka Singh has rejoined the squad after missing much of 2025 due to a stress fracture. She missed the series against Ireland, the ODI tri-series in Sri Lanka, and the England limited-overs tour.

Neetu David said: “She’s one of our important players. We rested her for the Australia series so she can be fully available for the World Cup.”

Amanjot Kaur Managed Carefully

All-rounder Amanjot Kaur is being managed cautiously due to a back injury sustained during the England series. She has been rested for the Australia ODIs, allowing Sayali Satghare to feature. Amanjot is expected to support Renuka with the ball and contribute with the bat.

New Faces Rewarded: Kranti Goud and Shree Charani

Kranti Goud and Shree Charani earned their spots with stellar performances in the WPL. Goud impressed in England with a six-wicket haul in Chester-le-Street, becoming the third Indian after Jhulan Goswami and Jasprit Bumrah to achieve such a feat in England. Charani claimed 10 wickets in five T20Is against England and was named Player of the Series.

Spin Department Lacks Leg-Spinners

India’s spin attack features Deepti Sharma, Sneh Rana, Shree Charani, and Radha Yadav. However, the leg-spin department remains thin. Asha Sobhana is injured, and standbys Prema Rawat and Priya Mishra were considered but not included. Other top teams like England, Australia, and New Zealand rely on experienced leg-spinners, leaving India potentially vulnerable in this department.

The stage is set for a thrilling home World Cup, with India aiming to finally capture the elusive title while balancing youth, experience, and key players returning from injury.