In a sudden turn of events, explosive opener Shafali Verma has rejoined India’s squad for the ICC Women’s World Cup semifinal against Australia. Her unexpected return comes after teammate Pratika Rawal sustained an unfortunate injury. While wishing Rawal a swift recovery, Verma expressed a sense of destiny about her recall, believing a higher power has brought her back to contribute to the team’s success.
Shafali Verma is eager to make an impact in the upcoming semi-final against Australia. (Image via Getty Images)
The 21-year-old was actively playing for Haryana in the National Women’s T20 tournament when she received the urgent call to join the national side. Rawal’s knee and ankle injuries, sustained during India’s last league match against Bangladesh, necessitated this immediate change.
Verma, who wasn’t initially part of the main squad or the reserves, wasted no time, linking up with the team on Monday. She immediately immersed herself in rigorous training, including extensive batting practice in the nets and fielding drills alongside key players like Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana, Sneh Rana, and Harleen Deol. Since her ODI debut in 2021, the right-handed batter has accumulated 644 runs in 29 matches, including four half-centuries.
Reflecting on her return, Verma acknowledged her strong form in domestic cricket. “I was playing domestic cricket and I was in very good touch,” she stated. Addressing the high-stakes semifinal, she added, “It’s not something new for me because I have played in semifinals before. It depends on how I keep myself clear mentally and maintain my confidence.”
Transitioning from the fast-paced T20 format back to the 50-over game isn’t without its challenges. “I was playing T20s, but as a batter, it’s not that easy to switch,” Verma admitted. However, she quickly adapted during recent practice sessions. “I tried to stay calm while batting, play good balls along the ground, and those that were in my range, I tried to hit them well.”
Having faced Australia numerous times, Verma’s familiarity with their bowling attack will be a significant advantage. “I know how their bowlers bowl,” she affirmed, emphasizing her strategy. “I have to back my strengths because they will undoubtedly come hard at us, and we have prepared well for it.”
As India gears up for this critical knockout match, Verma encapsulated the team’s collective determination: “We are in the semis now, and everyone knows that we have to give 200 percent. There is no other chance because it is a knockout game.”