New Delhi: Shafali Verma felt bad about Pratika Rawal suffering a horror injury ahead of India’s crucial semi-final clash against Australia in the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, but remains confident of stepping up in the knockout game after being roped in as a replacement for the opener.

Shafali was included in India’s squad ahead of the semi-final against 7-time champions Australia after Pratika suffered a hairline fracture on her ankle while fielding during India’s last group-stage game against Bangladesh. Pratika twisted her ankle after her foot got stuck in the ground, resulting in a hairline fracture, which ruled her out of the remainder of the tournament.

The in-form opener’s injury came as a huge blow to India ahead of their semi-final meeting against favourites Australia, who are

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