Is Pratika Rawal Dropped For IND-W vs SL-W Asia Cup Final? Here's the Truth

The Indian cricket team is all set to play the Women's Asia Cup 2026 final in Dubai against Sri Lanka. The Women in Blue have been dominant in this tournament and have thrashed every side they have faced so far.

However, they will be aware of a dangerous Sri Lankan team, which is capable of pulling off an upset win here. India's captain Harmanpreet Kaur won the toss and elected to bat first. She also announced that Pratika Rawal is not playing this game.

Why Pratika Rawal is Not Playing Today?

During the toss, Harmanpreet Kaur announced that Pratika Rawal has been "rested" for the IND-W vs SL-W Asia Cup final. It seemed surprising to see a player rested for a game like the final.

Rawal hasn't been in good form this tournament and has struggled to get going, especially after the powerplay. On a pitch which has been difficult for batting, she struggled to rotate strike.

India brought in the young left-hander G Kamalini as Pratika Rawal replacement for this big match. The youngster has been brilliant in domestic cricket and has also shown glimpses of her talent in the WPL. She now has a good chance to prove her worth in the night of the final.

A left-hander who is capable of big hits, Kamalini can be a good pick for Team India for this game. She is also seen as the future wicketkeeper for India. However, she didn't come out to bat at No. 3, a spot at which she was listed earlier.

Pratika Rawal's Disappointing T20I Debut

Pratika Rawal has been one of the best women cricketers over the last few years. However, her performances have come only in ODI cricket so far. She made her T20I debut in the ongoing Asia Cup, against Thailand Women.

Overall, Rawal scored just 56 runs in four matches of the Women's Asia Cup. She scored these runs at an average of 14 and a strike rate of just 98. The right-hander batted at No. 3, which is different from her usual opening spot where she bats in the ODIs.