The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially announced the squad for the Indian women’s cricket team, marking their participation in the upcoming T20I series against England along with two Tests against both England and Australia.
The announcement has stirred excitement among cricket enthusiasts, as it not only features the return of some seasoned players but also introduces fresh faces who have earned their spots through standout performances in domestic leagues.
One of the key highlights of the India squad announcement is the comeback of pacer Renuka Singh. Recovering from an injury, Singh has proven her fitness and form, making her return to the national side.
Her inclusion adds depth and experience to the fast-bowling department, providing a valuable resource for captain Harmanpreet Kaur in both the T20Is and the Test matches.
The squad announcement also introduces two promising talents who have shone brightly in the Women’s Premier League (WPL). Shreyanka Patil, recognized for her exceptional performances in the inaugural WPL, has secured a spot in the T20I squad.
Patil, who showcased her skills by contributing 62 runs and claiming six wickets for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), is set to make her international debut. Another WPL standout, spinner Saika Ishaque, has also earned her maiden call-up to the national team.
Ishaque’s notable performance in the league, where she secured an impressive 15 wickets for Mumbai Indians (MI), has caught the selectors’ attention, and she is poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming series.
The leadership remains consistent, with Harmanpreet Kaur continuing to lead the Women in Blue across all formats. Smriti Mandhana will serve as her deputy, bringing a blend of experience and dynamic batting to the team’s leadership group.
The T20I series against England is scheduled to take place from December 6 to 10, promising high-intensity cricket and setting the stage for the upcoming Test matches.
The solitary Test against England is set to kick off on December 14, followed by another Test against Australia starting on December 21.
These Test matches hold particular significance as they provide a rare opportunity for the women’s team to showcase their skills in the traditional format, contributing to the growth and development of women’s Test cricket.
The squad announcement reflects a strategic blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talents, highlighting the BCCI’s commitment to fostering a competitive and dynamic women’s cricket team.
As the cricketing world eagerly awaits these exciting encounters, the upcoming series is anticipated to be a compelling showcase of skill, determination, and sportsmanship from the Women in Blue.
India’s squad for 3 T20Is against England
Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Smriti Mandhana (VC), Jemimah Rodrigues, Shafali Verma, Deepti Sharma, Yastika Bhatia (wk), Richa Ghosh (wk), Amanjot Kaur, Shreyanka Patil, Mannat Kashyap, Saika Ishaque, Renuka Singh Thakur, Titas Sadhu, Pooja Vastrakar, Kanika Ahuja, Minnu Mani
India’s squad for Tests against England & Australia
Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Smriti Mandhana (VC), Jemimah Rodrigues, Shafali Verma, Deepti Sharma, Yastika Bhatia (wk), Richa Ghosh (wk), Sneh Rana, Shubha Satheesh, Harleen Deol, Saika Ishaque, Renuka Singh Thakur, Titas Sadhu, Meghna Singh, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Pooja Vastrakar.
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