India decided to drop star batter Jemimah Rodrigues for their crucial Women’s World Cup 2025 fixture against England today (October 19). The revelation was made by skipper Harmanpreet Kaur during the coin toss, who confirmed pacer Renuka Thakur will replace Jemimah, who’s struggling with her form. In four games so far, she has managed 65 runs at a paltry average of 16.25.
While Harmanpreet did not elucidate the decision, it can be fairly understood as a tactical change. India wanted to bring in an extra bowler and Renuka’s impressive stats against England played a role in it.
Amongst SENA nations, Renuka has the best bowling figures against England in ODIs, where she has taken eight wickets in three games at an excellent average of 10.75 with her best efforts coming with a 4/29.
Renuka has been limited at the ICC event so far after returning from a stress fracture prior to the tournament and has played only one game. Today will be a brilliant chance for the experienced pacer to use her guile and swing and help India get some early breakthroughs with the new ball.
Speaking about India’s qualification chances, the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side will hope to churn out a win against the English after two consecutive close losses to South Africa and Australia. They are currently placed fourth on the points table with two wins and four points from four matches.
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India Women Playing XI: Pratika Rawal, Smriti Mandhana, Harleen Deol, Harmanpreet Kaur(c), Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh(w), Amanjot Kaur, Sneh Rana, Kranti Gaud, Shree Charani, Renuka Singh Thakur
England Women Playing XI: Amy Jones(w), Tammy Beaumont, Heather Knight, Nat Sciver-Brunt(c), Sophia Dunkley, Emma Lamb, Alice Capsey, Charlotte Dean, Sophie Ecclestone, Linsey Smith, Lauren Bell
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