India's Women's T20 World Cup squad announcement has sparked plenty of discussion, but the biggest story might be who isn't on the plane. All-rounders Kashvee Gautam and Amanjot Kaur were notably missing from the 15-member squad, with the BCCI confirming both were ruled out due to injuries. Their absence forced the selection panel to dig deeper into the country's pace-bowling reserves ahead of the tournament in England and Wales, which kicks off on June 12.
Stepping into the spotlight is uncapped pacer Nandini Sharma, who earned her maiden World Cup call-up after a breakout season. The 22-year-old was a revelation for Delhi Capitals Women in the Women's Premier League, claiming 17 wickets in 10 matches and establishing herself as one of the tournament's most consistent Indian bowlers. She also impressed during the Women's Asia Cup Rising Stars competition in Bangkok earlier this year, showcasing the kind of pace and control that selectors couldn't ignore.
There's also a welcome return for wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia, who has recovered from the ACL injury she suffered during the ODI World Cup preparatory camp last year. Her comeback adds valuable depth behind the stumps alongside Richa Ghosh, giving India more flexibility in their batting order.
Young batter Pratika Rawal didn't make the T20 World Cup cut, but she hasn't been entirely overlooked. The selectors have included her in the squad for the one-off Test against England at Lord's from July 10 to 13, keeping her in the international mix and rewarding her potential.
Captain Harmanpreet Kaur will lead the side, with Smriti Mandhana as vice-captain. Before the World Cup, India will play a three-match T20I series against England starting May 28, serving as crucial preparation for the global tournament. The full squad includes Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Smriti Mandhana (VC), Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Bharti Fulmali, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), Shree Charani, Yastika Bhatia, Nandini Sharma, Renuka Singh Thakur, and Arundhati Reddy—a blend of experience and fresh energy ready to take on the world.