Why is Shafali Verma not in India's Squad for Women's World Cup 2025?

The Board of Control for Cricket in India has recently announced the squad for the upcoming ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, scheduled to begin on September 30. After weeks of speculation and discussions, selectors have finally revealed the 15-member squad, which blends experienced campaigners with promising young talent.

India, playing on home soil, will aim to clinch their first-ever Women’s World Cup title after finishing as runners-up in 2005 and 2017. The tournament promises to be an intense month-long contest, featuring the world’s best teams competing across iconic venues. Although India’s squad for the Women’s World Cup 2025 appears to be well-balanced, one key exclusion has left fans and experts perplexed.

The reason is Shafali Verma's exclusion from the squad. Known for her aggressive strokeplay and ability to take the game away in the powerplay, Verma’s absence from the final squad has sparked discussion on the internet about why she was snubbed from the India Women's World Cup squad and who has replaced her in the team.

Why is Shafali Verma not in India Squad for Women’s World Cup 2025?

Shafali Verma, a dynamic opener for India, has been left out of the Women’s World Cup Squad primarily due to her inconsistent form in recent matches. Despite her proven ability to deliver match-winning performances, Verma’s last ODI appearance came during the home series against New Zealand in October 2024, and her outings on the India A tour of Australia were underwhelming.

Chief selector Neetu David emphasized that Verma remains part of India’s long-term plans. “She’s in the system, not like she’s not. The more she plays, the more experience she gains, and that will help India in the 50-over format in the future,” David said.

Verma might not be in this squad but she can emerge to become one of the highest run-getters in world cricket. She is highly talented and can destroy any opposition on her day. In Shafali's absence, Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal will be India's first-choice openers.

Mandhana is a guaranteed performer for the India Women’s squad with years of experience, while Pratika Rawal has impressed since her debut against the West Indies, scoring 703 runs in 14 innings at an average of 54.07 with a strike rate of 88. Rawal's excellent batting form is also one of the reasons behind Shafali's exclusion from India Women's World Cup squad.

Yastika Bhatia has also been included as a backup option, ensuring the batting lineup remains long enough. The selectors believe this combination provides stability at the top, allowing India to balance aggression with consistency in the powerplay overs. Bhatia is the team's second-choice wicket-keeper behind Richa Ghosh. She is also a top order batter and can act as the reserve opener.

India’s Squad for Women’s World Cup 2025

The India women's cricket team will be led by captain Harmanpreet Kaur, with Smriti Mandhana serving as her deputy. The squad blends experienced campaigners with emerging stars, offering depth in both batting and bowling. Jemimah Rodrigues, Harleen Deol, and Yastika Bhatia strengthen the batting lineup, while Deepti Sharma and Sneh Rana provide all-around support.

Amanjot Kaur and Kranti Gaud add additional energy and versatility to the team. The bowling attack features Renuka Singh Thakur, returning after recovering from a stress fracture, along with Radha Yadav and Arundhati Reddy. Wicketkeeping duties are shared between Richa Ghosh and Yastika Bhatia, ensuring flexibility.

Other notable members include Sree Charani, Kranti Goud, and Amanjot Kaur, all contributing to a balanced side capable of challenging the top teams in the world. However, the leg-spin department remains a concern. With Asha Sobhana ruled out due to injury, India looked at Prema Rawat and Priya Mishra, but both were named only as standbys.

With home advantage and a mix of experience and youth, India enters the tournament with a strong chance to lift their first Women’s ODI World Cup trophy.

India Squad for Women's World Cup 2025: Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Smriti Mandhana (VC), Pratika Rawal, Harleen Deol, Deepti Sharma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Renuka Singh Thakur, Arundhati Reddy, Richa Ghosh (WK), Kranti Gaud, Amanjot Kaur, Radha Yadav, Sree Charani, Yastika Bhatia (WK) and Sneh Rana