New Delhi: India suffered a major setback ahead of the ICC Womens Cricket World Cup 2025 semi-final when opening batter Pratika Rawal was ruled out of the tournament due to injury. Her replacement 21-year-old Shafali Verma is now “200% ready” to perform for India. Despite being out of the ODI team for a year Shafali said she is full of confidence and wants to make the most of this opportunity. Increased Confidence Upon Return to the Team Shafali revealed that her return to the team was an emotional moment for her. She said “When I came back to the team everyone was very loving and welcoming. The captain coach and Smriti Mandhana told me to just play my game there’s no pressure.” Shafali says she is ready to play in any position whether opening or in the middle order and simply trusts her natural game. Big Challenge Against Australia Indias record against Australia hasnt been good – only one win in the last 11 ODIs. But Harmanpreet Kaurs historic 171* run innings in the 2017 World Cup semi-final led India to victory. Shafali says “I have played against Australia before I know their bowlers. We just have to stick to our plan and the result will come automatically.” Australias Preparations and Gardners Brilliance On the other hand Australia is in superb form and remained undefeated in the group stage. Their star all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner has scored two centuries propelling herself to second place in the world rankings after Smriti Mandhana. Team coach Shelley Nitschke said “Gardner has been exceptional in this tournament. She has been the backbone of the team not only in batting but also in bowling.” Home Crowd Support is Indias Strength India will have tremendous support from the home crowd in this semi-final in Navi Mumbai. The previous match against Bangladesh saw a record attendance of 25965 spectators. Coach Nitschke said “This environment will be new but also fantastic. Playing in front of a large crowd is a different experience and we want to enjoy it to the fullest.” Indias Hopes Rest on Shafali and Smriti All eyes are now on the opening pair of Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana. If Shafali plays in her characteristic style Indias chances of reaching the final will be even stronger. There is an atmosphere of enthusiasm confidence and unity within the team and every player wants to make the most of this opportunity. Story Highlights: Shafali Verma said – “I am 200% ready I will just trust myself.” Shafali Verma replaced the injured Pratika Rawal in the team. The semi-final match against Australia will be played in Navi Mumbai. Australia’s Ashleigh Gardner is in superb form posing a big challenge for India.