Indian women’s team head coach Amol Majumdar has said that despite being dropped from the ODI squad, star Indian opener Shafali Verma is a strong contender to make it to the squad for the upcoming home World Cup after she smashed a 41-ball 75 in the fifth T20I against England on Saturday, July 12.
After India’s group-stage exit at the T20 World Cup in October 2024, Shefali was recalled to the squad for the T20 series against England. Shefali scored 176 runs at an average of 35.2 and a strike rate of 158.55, including scores of 20, 3, 47, 31 and 75.
In Shefali’s absence, Pratika Rawal has performed brilliantly. Since making her debut at home against the West Indies in December, she has scored in 11 ODIs at an impressive average of 63.8, and could be a frontrunner to open with Mandhana in the upcoming World Cup.
This Indian team has a lot of depth now: Amol Majumdar
“It shows that this Indian team has a lot of depth now. Pratika Raval was selected in December, so it’s been almost six months, but she has made a deep mark in the early stages of her international career,” said Amol Majumdar in the press conference after the India vs England fifth T20I.
“So I think this Indian line-up has a lot of depth, and it can be a good headache for the coaching staff. And Shafali has been a great player. There is no doubt that she can definitely make it to the team,” Majumdar added.
The Indian women’s team won the 5-match T20 series against England 3-2, and now their eyes are on the 3-match ODI series against England starting on July 16 in Southampton. Shafali is not part of the ODI series starting in Southampton on Wednesday but the Indian coach still feels she is in the race for the upcoming 2025 ODI World Cup to be held in India.
FAQ
Who is Shafali Verma?
Shafali Verma is an aggressive Indian top-order batter known for her explosive batting in T20s and Tests. She debuted internationally at a young age.
What did head coach Amol Muzumdar say about her ODI World Cup chances?
Coach Amol Muzumdar made a key statement suggesting that Shafali Verma is still being considered and remains in the selection mix for the ODI World Cup squad.
Has Shafali Verma played in ODIs before?
Yes, she has played in One Day Internationals but hasn’t yet made a consistent impact compared to her T20I performances.
Why is her selection for the ODI World Cup uncertain?
Her ODI form has been inconsistent, and team management is likely evaluating her performance, fitness, and role fit for the 50-over format.
