India Women's Squad for Australia ODI Tour Announced

The Women’s Selection Committee has unveiled the 16-member Indian squad for the highly anticipated three-match ODI series against Australia, starting December 5. The series, part of the ICC Women’s Championship, will see the two teams clashing at iconic venues, including the Allan Border Field in Brisbane and the WACA Ground in Perth.

While Harmanpreet Kaur will lead the side, Smriti Mandhana will serve as her deputy. The squad features notable inclusions and exclusions, with Shafali Verma missing out due to a slump in form, while Priya Punia, Richa Ghosh, and Harleen Deol return to strengthen the lineup.

India's Squad for Australia ODIs

Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Smriti Mandhana (VC), Priya Punia, Jemimah Rodrigues, Harleen Deol, Yastika Bhatia (WK), Richa Ghosh (WK), Tejal Hasabnis, Deepti Sharma, Minnu Mani, Priya Mishra, Radha Yadav, Titas Sadhu, Arundhati Reddy, Renuka Singh Thakur, Saima Thakor.

Key Highlights of the Squad

Return of Richa Ghosh and Priya Punia: Richa Ghosh makes her comeback after missing the New Zealand series due to her board exams. Priya Punia, who last played in June, also returns following strong domestic performances.

Shafali Verma’s Exclusion: Opener Shafali Verma has been dropped due to poor form. Her exclusion has paved the way for other batters, including Punia and Harleen Deol, to make an impact.

Debut Opportunities for Minnu Mani and Titas Sadhu: The uncapped duo of Minnu Mani and Titas Sadhu, both with T20I experience, earn call-ups and could play their maiden ODIs.

Experienced Core: The squad retains experienced players like Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues, Yastika Bhatia, and Deepti Sharma, who are currently in Australia for the WBBL, ensuring continuity and match readiness.

Bowling Attack: Renuka Singh Thakur and Arundhati Reddy will lead the pace attack, supported by newcomers Titas Sadhu and Saima Thakor. Radha Yadav and Deepti Sharma will handle spin duties alongside Minnu Mani.

The three-match ODI series between India Women and Australia Women will kick off on December 5, 2024. The first two matches are scheduled to take place at the Allan Border Field in Brisbane, while the final ODI will be held at the WACA Ground in Perth.

• 1st ODI: December 5, 2024 (Thursday), 9:50 AM IST – Allan Border Field, Brisbane
• 2nd ODI: December 8, 2024 (Sunday), 5:15 AM IST – Allan Border Field, Brisbane
• 3rd ODI: December 11, 2024 (Wednesday), 9:50 AM IST – WACA Ground, Perth

Fans can look forward to an exciting contest as both teams