In an inspiring gesture that has touched cricket fans across the world, ICC President Jay Shah personally ensured that India opener Pratika Rawal received her Women’s World Cup 2025 winner’s medal — even though she was sidelined by injury before the semi-finals.

The 23-year-old batter suffered an unfortunate ankle twist during India’s final group-stage clash against Bangladesh, ruling her out of the rest of the tournament. She was replaced by Shafali Verma, who went on to play a starring role in India’s 52-run win over South Africa in the final at the Dr DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai.

While the Indian team lifted the trophy, fans noticed that Pratika, seen in a wheelchair during the celebrations, was without a winner’s medal due to ICC regulations allowing medals only for the 15 official

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