Mumbai, August 20, 2025: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a strong 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, starting September 30 in India. For the first time in her career, Harmanpreet Kaur will captain India in a World Cup, with star opener Smriti Mandhana as her deputy.
Shafali Verma Misses Out, Renuka Thakur Returns
One of the major talking points from the selection is the omission of explosive opener Shafali Verma, who has been struggling with form in recent months. On the positive side, India’s pace attack has been strengthened by the return of Renuka Singh Thakur, who comes back after a long injury layoff.
Amanjot Kaur Gets a World Cup Call-Up
With all-rounder Pooja Vastrakar ruled out due to a stress injury, Amanjot Kaur has been drafted in as her replacement. The Chandigarh cricketer has impressed with both bat and ball in recent tours. During India’s T20I series win in England, she played a crucial role with the ball and scored a memorable unbeaten 63 to guide India to victory in a pressure chase.
Confirming her inclusion, skipper Harmanpreet Kaur said at the BCCI press conference:
“Amanjot has been consistent for India A in Australia, and we believe she brings balance to the squad as a seam-bowling all-rounder.”
Strong Momentum Ahead of the Tournament
India enters the 2025 Women’s World Cup with strong momentum, having recently:
Won the tri-nation series in Sri Lanka (involving South Africa)
Secured a historic series win in England
These results have boosted the team’s confidence as they prepare to chase their maiden World Cup title on home soil.
India’s Road to the Trophy
India has twice reached the final of the Women’s ODI World Cup – in 2005 and 2017. In the last final at Lord’s, India narrowly lost to England in a thriller. With home advantage, Harmanpreet’s team will be eager to script history by going one step further this time.
However, India faces stiff competition from seven-time champions Australia and four-time winners England, who remain strong contenders.
India’s campaign begins against Sri Lanka at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, on September 30.
India’s 15-Member Squad for Women’s ODI World Cup 2025
Harmanpreet Kaur (C)
Smriti Mandhana (VC)
Pratika Rawal
Harleen Deol
Jemimah Rodrigues
Richa Ghosh
Yastika Bhatia
Renuka Singh Thakur
Deepti Sharma
Sneh Rana
Sree Charani
Radha Yadav
Amanjot Kaur
Arundhati Reddy
Kranti Gaud
Key Takeaway
With a balanced mix of experienced campaigners and exciting youngsters, the Women in Blue will start the 2025 World Cup as strong favourites. Fans across the country will be hoping Harmanpreet Kaur’s leadership and home advantage finally deliver India’s long-awaited first-ever Women’s World Cup title.
