Why is Pratika Rawal Not Playing Today Match in GG vs UPW WPL 2026?

Pratika Rawal is not part of the clash between Gujarat Giants and UP Warriorz Women in Match 2 of the WPL 2026 due to an injury that has kept her sidelined since the latter stages of the 2025 ICC Women’s World Cup. The young Indian batter picked up a serious ankle injury during India’s final group-stage match of the World Cup while fielding near the boundary, where she slipped awkwardly and twisted her ankle.

The injury was severe enough to force her out of the remainder of the tournament, including the semifinal and final, and she was officially ruled out on medical advice.

Why is Pratika Rawal Not Playing Today in GG vs UPW WPL 2026?

Pratika Rawal has been undergoing a rehabilitation program. Although UP Warriorz secured her services at the WPL 2026 auction and were hopeful of her return early in the season, her fitness remained uncertain leading into the tournament, with the franchise management publicly acknowledging that they are awaiting final medical clearance.

She will miss out on the opening clash of the UP Warriorz Women against the Gujarat Giants, which is being played in Navi Mumbai at the DY Patil Sports Academy. Given the risk of an ankle injury if rushed back, the team management, in consultation with medical staff, has decided not to include her in this match as she is still fully match-ready.

Her absence is purely precautionary, with the Warriorz prioritising her long-term fitness, and she is expected to feature later in the tournament once she regains full fitness and clearance.