Radha Yadav Replaces Shuchi Upadhyay | India Women Squad Update

RADHA YADAV REPLACES INJURED SHUCHI UPADHYAY FOR INDIA WOMEN’S TOUR OF ENGLAND

12 June 2025, Bengaluru – In a key update ahead of India Women’s much-anticipated tour of England, the BCCI has announced left-arm spinner Radha Yadav as the replacement for the injured Shuchi Upadhyay. The Women’s Selection Committee confirmed the change on Wednesday, following Shuchi’s withdrawal due to a shin injury detected during the pre-tour training camp at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.

This marks an important shift in the bowling unit’s balance as the Indian team prepares for a challenging white-ball series against England. Radha Yadav’s inclusion brings depth and experience to the squad, especially in the T20I format, where she has previously delivered under pressure on foreign soil.

Injury setback for rising star Shuchi Upadhyay

Shuchi Upadhyay, a promising pace-bowling all-rounder, had earned her maiden senior call-up after consistent performances in domestic tournaments and India A tours. Unfortunately, during fitness drills at the Centre of Excellence, she experienced discomfort in her left shin, prompting the medical team to conduct further assessments. The scans confirmed a soft tissue injury, ruling her out of the tour as a precautionary measure.

The BCCI’s medical panel is monitoring Shuchi’s recovery and has advised a rest and rehabilitation period. While the injury is not expected to be long-term, the management opted for a proactive replacement to ensure team continuity and fitness readiness for the series.

Radha Yadav’s return: experience meets opportunity

Radha Yadav’s re-entry into both the ODI and T20I squads marks a return to the national setup for one of India’s most dependable left-arm spinners. Known for her tight lines, wicket-taking ability in the middle overs, and adaptability to English conditions, Radha brings a wealth of experience that could prove crucial on this tour.

She last featured prominently during India’s T20I series against Australia earlier this year, where her variations and temperament under pressure impressed selectors. Though she was initially left out of the England-bound squads, her recall following Shuchi’s injury gives India a tested spin option capable of containing aggressive English batters, particularly in conditions that traditionally assist turn and bounce.

Radha’s presence also boosts India’s spin arsenal alongside the likes of Deepti Sharma and Sneh Rana, offering variety and control — both of which are vital in English summer conditions, especially at venues like Bristol and Northampton, known to favor spinners in the second innings.

India’s updated squads: Balanced mix of youth and experience

With the inclusion of Radha Yadav, both the ODI and T20I squads now look more balanced. The core remains anchored by Harmanpreet Kaur’s leadership and Smriti Mandhana’s vice-captaincy, with experienced campaigners like Jemimah Rodrigues, Shafali Verma, and Richa Ghosh forming the backbone of the batting unit.

In the T20I squad, Radha joins the spin trio of Deepti Sharma, Sneh Rana, and the uncapped Sayali Satghare. The pace unit is supported by Amanjot Kaur and Arundhati Reddy, while all-rounders like Harleen Deol and Sree Charani add depth to both departments.

The ODI squad sees similar structure, with Radha expected to play a backup role in the spin department but could be a direct starter if conditions turn favorable. Her ability to bowl economically and build pressure with dot balls will be key, particularly in the middle overs.

It’s worth noting that several fresh faces — including Kranti Gaud, Tejal Hasabnis, and Pratika Rawal — are part of this England tour, indicating India’s broader vision of grooming young talent ahead of the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2026.

England tour significance and preparation outlook

This tour is a major benchmark for Team India as it enters a transition phase under Harmanpreet Kaur’s leadership. With the T20 World Cup and ODI World Cup cycles approaching, performance in away series will play a vital role in squad finalization and strategy shaping.

The English tour includes three T20Is and three ODIs across Bristol, Worcester, and Hove, beginning later this June. These venues are expected to offer seaming conditions up front but tend to open up for spinners as matches progress — a factor that makes Radha Yadav’s selection even more timely.

The team management has placed emphasis on fitness, squad rotation, and role clarity — themes reiterated by coach Amol Muzumdar during the pre-tour camp. The inclusion of multi-dimensional players, particularly bowlers who can contribute with the bat, reflects a clear strategic move to adapt to modern cricket demands.

Radha’s statement of intent

While Radha Yadav has not publicly commented following her recall, sources close to the player confirmed she is “match-ready” and “thrilled” to be back in the national frame. With over 60 T20I caps and consistent performances in the Women’s Premier League, her experience could become a decisive factor in this high-profile tour.

What this change means for India

Replacing a young, energetic bowler like Shuchi Upadhyay with an experienced head in Radha Yadav is both a pragmatic and tactical decision. It ensures the team doesn’t lose out on a left-arm option and gains a bowler familiar with English pitches. While Shuchi’s absence is a setback in terms of pace bowling development, Radha’s recall offers India reliability and proven skill.

As the Indian team gears up for its first tour of England in two years, all eyes will be on how the young squad responds to pressure, adapts to conditions, and integrates experienced returnees like Radha into the match-day plans.