The stage is set for a thrilling Women's World Cup semi-final clash between India and Australia in Navi Mumbai on Thursday, but recent developments have added layers of complexity to the contest. The absence of India's in-form opener, Pratika Rawal, due to an ankle and knee injury, coupled with the potential return of Australian captain Alyssa Healy from a calf strain, could significantly tilt the balance in favor of the defending champions.
Rawal's injury, sustained during India's final group stage match against Bangladesh, is a significant blow to the hosts. The 25-year-old had been in exceptional form, becoming the joint-fastest to 1000 runs in women's ODI cricket and playing a crucial role in India's victories with her aggressive batting style. Her absence leaves a void at the top of the order, forcing India to reshuffle their batting lineup. Shafali Verma has been named as Rawal's replacement in the squad. While Verma is an explosive batter, she last played an ODI a year ago, and her inconsistency has been a concern.
In Rawal's absence, India will heavily rely on Smriti Mandhana, their highest run-scorer in the tournament with 365 runs. The onus will also be on captain Harmanpreet Kaur to deliver a strong performance in the crucial semi-final. Other options to open the innings include Amanjot Kaur, Harleen Deol, Uma Chetry and Jemimah Rodrigues. There are also doubts surrounding the fitness of wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh, who missed the Bangladesh game due to a finger injury.
Meanwhile, Australia has received a major boost with the potential return of their captain, Alyssa Healy. Healy, who missed the last two league games due to a calf injury, has shown strong signs of recovery and has cleared a fitness assessment. Her return would significantly strengthen Australia's batting lineup and leadership. Healy has been in scintillating form in the tournament, amassing 294 runs in just four innings, including a brilliant 142 off 98 balls against India in the group stage. Her aggressive approach and experience in knockout matches make her a major threat to India's bowling attack.
Australia's coach Shelley Nitschke has expressed optimism about Healy's return, but a final decision will be made closer to the game. Even in Healy's absence, Australia has demonstrated their strength, with Tahlia McGrath leading the team admirably. Beth Mooney and Ashleigh Gardner have also been among the runs.
This semi-final will be the third between India and Australia in Women's ODI World Cup history. Australia won in 1997, while India secured a memorable victory in 2017, courtesy of Harmanpreet Kaur's magnificent 171. The weather in Navi Mumbai could also play a role, with a 25 percent chance of rain. A reserve day has been scheduled to ensure the match is completed.
With Rawal's injury and Healy's potential return, Australia appears to have a slight edge heading into the semi-final. However, India, playing on home soil, will be determined to put up a strong fight and secure their maiden World Cup title. The match promises to be a thrilling contest between two of the world's best teams.
