India’s Women’s World Cup campaign has taken a heartbreaking turn as Pratika Rawal injured herself during a crucial practice session in Mumbai earlier this week. The dynamic opener, known for her aggressive starts and calm temperament under pressure, has been officially ruled out of the remainder of the tournament following a serious ankle injury.
How the injury happened
According to team sources, Pratika twisted her ankle awkwardly while fielding during a high-intensity training drill on Saturday. Despite immediate medical attention, scans later confirmed a ligament tear that would require at least four to six weeks of recovery.
Team physio Anjali Mehra stated, “Pratika’s injury is significant enough to keep her out for the rest of the competition. The medical team will monitor her closely to ensure a full recovery before the next international series.”
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Impact on India’s World Cup campaign
Pratika Rawal’s absence leaves a huge void at the top of India’s batting order. She had been one of the most consistent performers in the ongoing tournament, scoring over 240 runs in five matches, including two match-winning half-centuries. Her injury forces the team management to rethink their strategy ahead of the high-stakes semi-final against Australia.
Head coach Ramesh Iyer admitted that the loss is “devastating both tactically and emotionally.”
He said, “Pratika brings balance to our batting lineup. Her early partnerships often set the tone for the game. We’ll now rely on young players to rise to the occasion.”
Who could replace Pratika Rawal in the lineup
Selectors are expected to call up Simran Kaur, a 22-year-old opener from Punjab who has impressed in domestic tournaments this season. Though inexperienced at the international level, Simran’s recent form including a blistering 92 against Railways makes her a strong contender to fill the spot.
Alternatively, India might opt to reshuffle the order, pushing vice-captain Harman Gill to open alongside Shafali Deshmukh.
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Fans and teammates react
The news that Pratika Rawal injured herself spread rapidly across social media, with fans expressing heartbreak and sending wishes for a speedy recovery.
Teammate Smriti Rana posted on X (formerly Twitter): “We’ll miss you out there, Pati! Your energy lifts us all. Come back stronger.”
Messages also poured in from cricket analysts and former players praising Rawal’s fighting spirit and contribution to the team’s rise in recent years.
What’s next for Pratika Rawal
Rawal is expected to remain with the squad during the knockout phase to support her teammates from the sidelines. Rehabilitation will begin immediately under the guidance of the National Cricket Academy’s medical staff.
If recovery goes as planned, she could return to competitive cricket by early next year, in time for the India-New Zealand home series.
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Final thoughts
The phrase “Pratika Rawal injured” has now become the most-searched topic among cricket fans this week and understandably so. Losing a player of her caliber just before the semi-final is a major setback for Team India. Yet, this adversity might ignite the fighting spirit the team is known for.
As India prepares for their next challenge, the entire nation hopes to see Pratika Rawal back on the field soon stronger, hungrier, and ready to chase glory once again.
