Key Takeaways
- Pratika Rawal injured her ankle and knee during fielding against Bangladesh
- India’s second-highest run-scorer in the tournament faces uncertainty for semi-final
- Medical team monitoring her progress ahead of crucial Australia clash
In a significant setback for Team India, young opener Pratika Rawal suffered an ankle and knee injury during the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 match against Bangladesh at Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai.
The 25-year-old rising star was forced to leave the field after twisting her ankle while fielding at the boundary during Bangladesh’s innings. The incident occurred in the 21st over when Rawal sprinted from cow corner and her foot got caught in the turf.
Injury Details and Immediate Response
Rawal collapsed in pain, clutching her ankle as the ball raced to the boundary. Although medical staff brought out a stretcher, she managed to walk off with physio assistance, limping noticeably. Amanjot Kaur replaced her as opener alongside Smriti Mandhana.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the injury in an official statement: “Team India all-rounder Pratika Rawal sustained an injury to her knee and ankle while fielding in the first innings against Bangladesh. The BCCI Medical Team is closely monitoring her progress.”
Rawal’s Tournament Performance
Pratika Rawal has been one of India’s standout performers in the World Cup, making her potential absence particularly concerning. In 6 innings, she has amassed 308 runs at an impressive average of 51.33 with a strike rate of 77.77.
She currently ranks as the tournament’s second-highest run-scorer, trailing only teammate Smriti Mandhana. Her century against New Zealand in the previous match helped India secure their semi-final spot with a 53-run victory.
Semi-Final Implications
India, having finished fourth in the league stage, now face table-toppers Australia in the second semi-final on Thursday at the same Navi Mumbai venue. Rawal’s potential absence could significantly impact India’s batting lineup against the tournament favorites.
The medical team’s assessment over the coming days will be crucial in determining whether the young opener can recover in time for the high-stakes encounter.
