In a significant development, skipper Harmanpreet Kaur and star pacer Renuka Singh Thakur have been rested for India Women’s upcoming three-match ODI series against Ireland. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) made the announcement on Monday, citing workload management and injury concerns.
Smriti Mandhana Takes the Helm
Opener Smriti Mandhana will lead the side during the series, which kicks off on January 10 in Rajkot. This comes as Harmanpreet Kaur continues her recovery from a knee injury sustained during the home series against the West Indies last month. Harmanpreet also suffered a neck injury during the Women’s T20 World Cup in Dubai last October, raising concerns over her long-term fitness.
Rest for Renuka Singh Thakur
Renuka Singh Thakur, who was instrumental in India’s ODI series victory against the West Indies, claiming 10 wickets across three matches, has also been rested. The decision is aimed at managing her workload, as she had previously dealt with a stress fracture on her back.
India Squad for the Series
The BCCI announced the following squad for the Ireland series:
- Smriti Mandhana (Captain)
- Deepti Sharma (Vice-Captain)
- Pratika Rawal
- Harleen Deol
- Jemimah Rodrigues
- Uma Chetry (Wicketkeeper)
- Richa Ghosh (Wicketkeeper)
- Tejal Hasabnis
- Raghvi Bist
- Minnu Mani
- Priya Mishra
- Tanuja Kanwer
- Titas Sadhu
- Saima Thakor
- Sayali Satghare
Match Schedule
(All matches will be held in Rajkot and start at 11 AM IST):
- 1st ODI: January 10
- 2nd ODI: January 12
- 3rd ODI: January 15
Looking Ahead
The series against Ireland offers an excellent opportunity for young players to shine under the leadership of Smriti Mandhana. Fans will be eager to see how the team adapts to these changes and maintains their dominant form in international cricket. The matches in Rajkot promise to showcase thrilling action as India continues its journey to solidify its standing in women’s cricket.
