Pratika Rawal ruled out of Women's World Cup due to injury, Shafali named replacement

In a major blow to India, in-form opener Pratika Rawal was on Monday ruled out of the remainder of the ICC Women’s World Cup, owing to the ankle injury that occurred during India’s rain-hit last league match against Bangladesh at DY Patil Stadium on Sunday.

Shafali Verma, who last played an ODI a year ago, has been named Pratika’s replacement, BCCI said in a statement.

Various reports confirmed that Pratika’s injury is unlikely to heal by October 30, when the Indian team is scheduled to play against Australia in the second semifinal here in Navi Mumbai.

The incident occurred during the 21^st over of Bangladesh’s innings, when Pratika slipped on the wet outfield while attempting to prevent a second run. She twisted her ankle badly, which also impacted her knee.

She has been India’s standout this World Cup with 308 runs in six innings. She also sits second on the tournament’s run charts.

In her last match, she posted 122 against a crucial tie opposite New Zealand which was a must-win for the host team to qualify for the knockouts.