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At just 21 years old, Shafali has experienced the peaks and valleys of international cricket. She made headlines with her record-setting fifties as a teenager and was seen as a potential game-changer for India in crucial tournaments. However, her recent inconsistency in the ODI format has raised concerns. While she remains a formidable player in T20 matches, her struggle to construct longer innings in the 50-over format seems to have cost her a spot on the team. The selectors opted for a squad that emphasizes balance and reliability over sheer explosive talent.

In an interesting twist, India has welcomed back pace bowler Renuka Thakur, who returns after a significant injury hiatus. Having been sidelined since the WPL 2025 due to a foot injury, Renuka missed the earlier tri-series in Sri Lanka. Her return is a significant boost for India's bowling lineup, as her ability to swing the new ball will be vital in home conditions. She is set to regain her form during the three-match ODI series against Australia in September, marking her return to international cricket after months of recovery.

Another noteworthy addition is Amanjot Kaur, an allrounder known for her pace bowling, who has been included in the World Cup squad but will not participate in the Australia series as the management aims to keep her fresh for the tournament.

The upcoming series against Australia will serve as a crucial test for the team. The first two ODIs are scheduled to take place in Mullanpur, New Chandigarh on September 14 and 17, with the final match in Delhi on September 20. This series will provide an excellent opportunity for the squad to finalize their combinations ahead of the World Cup.

India's campaign will kick off against Sri Lanka on September 30, and expectations are soaring. With the advantage of playing at home and a squad that combines experienced players with emerging talents, the pressure is on. However, the absence of Shafali Verma will undoubtedly be a significant topic of discussion as the tournament approaches.

Was her omission due to a dip in form at a critical moment, or was it a strategic decision by the selectors to prioritize more consistent players? Regardless, India's World Cup journey will commence without one of their most dynamic batters, marking a bold choice.

India Women’s World Cup 2025 Squad: Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Smriti Mandhana (vc), Pratika Rawal, Harleen Deol, Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh (wk), Yastika Bhatia (wk), Deepti Sharma, Sneh Rana, Amanjot Kaur, Radha Yadav, Sree Charani, Kranti Goud, Arundhati Reddy, Renuka Thakur

Stand-by: Tejal Hasabnis, Prema Rawal, Priya Mishra, Uma Chetry, Mnnu Mani, Sayali Satghare