Shafali Verma Dropped, Richa Ghosh Returns for India’s ODI Squad Against Australia

India Women’s cricket team has announced its 16-member squad for the upcoming ODI series against Australia, with notable changes. Shafali Verma, the opener, has been dropped due to a prolonged dip in form, while Richa Ghosh, the wicketkeeper-batter, makes a return after missing the New Zealand ODIs due to her board exams.

The three ODIs are scheduled to take place in Brisbane and Perth on December 5, 8, and 11, as part of the ICC Women’s Championship.

Key Squad Updates

Shafali Verma Left Out

Shafali’s struggle in ODIs continues, as she managed only 108 runs at an average of 18 in six matches this year. The 20-year-old was previously dropped during the home series against Australia in 2023 and has not found consistency in the 50-over format. With her absence, Yastika Bhatia is likely to partner Smriti Mandhana at the top, while Priya Punia may step into the No. 3 position.

Richa Ghosh Back in Action

Richa, a dynamic batter, reclaims her spot after excelling in domestic cricket and overcoming academic commitments. Her inclusion strengthens India’s middle order, alongside experienced players like Jemimah Rodrigues and Harmanpreet Kaur.

New Faces and Comebacks

Priya Punia: Returns to the ODI squad after showing promise in domestic cricket and on the India A tour of Australia earlier this year. She will compete for a key batting slot.
Harleen Deol: The allrounder is back in the team after nearly a year, bringing versatility to the middle order.
Minnu Mani and Titas Sadhu: Both uncapped in ODIs, they join the squad as promising prospects. Sadhu will serve as a backup for seamers Renuka Singh and Arundhati Reddy.

Players Missing Out

D Hemalatha, Shreyanka Patil, Sayali Satghare, Uma Chetry: These players were excluded after failing to make a mark in recent appearances.
Asha Sobhana and Pooja Vastrakar: Both remain unavailable, with Sobhana recovering from injury and Vastrakar rested.

Australia’s Recent Form

Australia enters the series as joint table-toppers of the ICC Women’s Championship, alongside England. Their last ODI series saw them secure a clean sweep against Bangladesh in Mirpur.

India, fresh from a 2-1 victory against New Zealand, will aim to maintain their momentum and secure vital Championship points.