BCCI Announces India Women’s 15-Member Squad for ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025
The squad, announced in Mumbai, features a strong blend of youth and experience. Harmanpreet Kaur will continue to lead the side, with Smriti Mandhana named as her deputy. Both senior players carry the responsibility of anchoring the batting lineup and guiding the younger stars in the team.
One of the key talking points is the inclusion of youngsters such as Richa Ghosh and Yastika Bhatia, who have been rewarded for their consistent domestic and international performances. Their ability to adapt to different match situations provides India with flexibility in the middle order. At the top, Mandhana remains the mainstay, supported by Jemimah Rodrigues, whose form in recent series has been promising.
The selectors have also put their faith in the experienced all-rounders. Deepti Sharma and Pooja Vastrakar bring balance to the side, capable of contributing with both bat and ball. Their presence ensures that India has reliable options in crunch moments. The spin department looks strong with Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Radha Yadav, and Deepti Sharma, who will play a key role on Indian pitches known for assisting slower bowlers.
In the pace attack, Renuka Singh will lead the charge, supported by Meghna Singh and the versatile Pooja Vastrakar. While India does not boast express pacers, the management is confident that this group can make early inroads and handle pressure in high-stakes games.
However, the announcement did not come without surprises. Rising star Shafali Verma has been left out of the squad, a decision that has already sparked debate among fans and experts. While her aggressive batting had the potential to change games in the powerplay overs, her inconsistency and lack of runs in recent months appear to have gone against her. Chief Selector Neetu David clarified, “Shafali is undoubtedly a talented player with a bright future. For this tournament, we had to prioritize stability and form. She remains an integral part of our long-term plans.”
Captain Harmanpreet Kaur, speaking about the squad, expressed confidence in her team. “This is a balanced squad with experience and young energy. Playing at home is always special, and we want to make the most of this opportunity to win the World Cup in front of our fans.”
The World Cup 2025 will see India face top teams like Australia, England, New Zealand, and Pakistan in a month-long battle for supremacy. With the tournament being played in familiar conditions, expectations are soaring for the Women in Blue to finally end their wait for an ICC trophy.
As the countdown begins, the announcement has set the stage for what promises to be a historic edition of the Women’s World Cup, with India aiming to script glory on home turf.
Here are the 15 members of India’s Women’s squad for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, as officially announced by the BCCI:
Harmanpreet Kaur (Captain)
Smriti Mandhana (Vice-Captain)
Pratika Rawal
Harleen Deol
Jemimah Rodrigues
Richa Ghosh (Wicket-keeper)
Yastika Bhatia (Wicket-keeper)
Deepti Sharma
Sneh Rana
Sree Charani
Radha Yadav
Amanjot Kaur
Kranti Goud
Arundhati Reddy
Renuka Singh Thakur