India will play their last three ODIs of the current ICC Women’s Championship cycle, aiming to secure a position above England, as Australia has already been crowned champions.
The Women’s Selection Committee has announced a 15-member squad for the ODI series against Ireland, to be held at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot. With regular skipper Harmanpreet Kaur rested to manage her workload, Smriti Mandhana will lead the side, and Deepti Sharma will serve as her deputy.
Mandhana, who has been in stellar form following her performances against the West Indies in both T20Is and ODIs last month, will look to continue her momentum. Harleen Deol, fresh off her maiden ODI century against the West Indies, will also aim to build on her batting form.
Renuka Singh Thakur, India’s pace spearhead, is another notable absentee as she, too, has been rested.
India’s Squad:
Smriti Mandhana (c), Deepti Sharma, Pratika Rawal, Harleen Deol, Jemimah Rodrigues, Uma Chetry, Richa Ghosh, Tejal Hasabnis, Raghvi Bist, Minnu Mani, Priya Mishra, Tanuja Kanwer, Titas Sadhu, Saima Thakor, Sayali Satghare
India’s most recent ODI series saw them dominate the West Indies, winning 3-0 in late December.
Fixtures:
3rd ODI: 15th January, Niranjan Shah Stadium, Rajkote final ODI in Ahmedabad on February 12.
1st ODI: 10th January, Niranjan Shah Stadium, Rajkot
2nd ODI: 12th January, Niranjan Shah Stadium, Rajkot
India’s home series against England includes five T20Is and three ODIs, kicking off on January 22. Bumrah’s fitness will be closely monitored, as his availability is crucial for India’s Champions Trophy campaign.
