In a heartwarming turn of events, Indian cricket star Pratika Rawal has finally received her World Cup winner's medal, thanks to a significant gesture by ICC Chairman Jay Shah. Rawal, a key member of the Indian squad that clinched the 2025 Women's Cricket World Cup, had initially missed out on the medal presentation due to an unfortunate injury.

Rawal played a pivotal role in India's journey to the World Cup title. She amassed 308 runs in six innings, showcasing her batting prowess with an impressive average of 51.33 and a strike rate of 77.77. Her stellar performances included a memorable maiden World Cup century during a dominant opening partnership of 212 with Smriti Mandhana against New Zealand, a knock that played a crucial role in revitalizing India's campaign.

However, during the final group-stage match against Bangladesh, Rawal sustained an ankle injury. This unfortunate incident led to her replacement in the official 15-player squad before the semi-final, with Shafali Verma taking her place. According to the International Cricket Council (ICC) regulations, only players in the final declared squad are eligible to receive winner's medals. Consequently, Rawal was not presented with a medal during the official trophy ceremony.

Despite not being on the field for the final, her earlier contributions and presence in the squad were acknowledged by the team as she was part of all the on-field celebrations after the win and later the felicitations in New Delhi as well.

According to Rawal's father, Pradeep Rawal, Jay Shah personally intervened to ensure that Pratika received her well-deserved medal. Shah reportedly contacted the ICC and ensured that Rawal would be recognized for her contribution to the team's success. "Jay Shah personally texted us and said that he had spoken to the ICC, and that we would receive the medal. Pratika received the medal before meeting Prime Minister Modi. Jay Shah took the initiative himself and personally informed Pratika," Pradeep Rawal told India Today.

The medal was presented to Rawal, and she was seen wearing it proudly during the team's photographs with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu. This gesture has been widely appreciated, with many hailing Jay Shah's intervention as a testament to recognizing the contributions of all team members, regardless of their presence in the final playing XI.