India Women’s cricket team has announced their squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Irelandscheduled to begin on January 10 in Rajkot. With key players being rested, the squad sees a few changes and new faces, offering an opportunity for fresh talent to step in and make an impact. This shift in the lineup reflects India’s strategy to give other players a chance to showcase their skills and gain valuable experience in international cricket.
The omission of Harmanpreet Kaur and Renuka Singh from the squad comes as both players have been given a rest to manage their workload ahead of upcoming international commitments. The team will also miss the presence of notable players like Arundhati Reddy, Shafali Vermaand Radha Yadavwho continue to be sidelined. While their absence will be felt, the squad for this series reflects India’s depth in talent, offering new opportunities for others to shine.
Smriti Mandhana will lead the Indian women’s team for the ODI series against Ireland. Mandhana has been one of India’s most consistent performers in international cricket and has shown excellent leadership skills when captaining in Harmanpreet’s absence. Deepti Sharma will support Mandhana as vice-captain, bringing her experience to the leadership group. With the added responsibility, Mandhana will look to guide the team to a strong series victory.
The series will also see the inclusion of Raghvi Bist and Sayali Satgharewho have been called up to the squad. Bist made her T20I debut in December 2024 against West Indies in Navi Mumbai, where she had notable performances with scores of 5 and 31 in her two games. Meanwhile, Satghare, who had received her India call-up for the ODIs against New Zealand in October 2024 but did not get a chance to play, will be eager to make her debut in this series. Both players add depth to the squad and will be keen to contribute to the team’s success.
Further, Pratika Rawal and Tanuja Kanwarboth of whom made their debuts for India during the West Indies ODIs in Vadodara, have retained their spots in the squad. Their continued presence demonstrates their potential and value in the team as they look to build on their early experiences at the international level.
Smriti Mandhana (captain), Deepti Sharma (vice-captain), Pratika Rawal, Harleen Deol, Jemimah Rodrigues, Uma Chetry (wk), Richa Ghosh (wk), Tejal Hasabnis, Raghvi Bist, Minnu Mani, Priya Mishra, Tanuja Kanwer, Titas Sadhu, Saima Thakor, Sayali Satghare