asked Harleen Deol – With India opener Pratika Raval’s injury likely to rule her out of Thursday’s crucial Women’s World Cup semi-final against Australia, former captain Mithali Raj has backed Harleen Deol to be promoted to the opening slot. “Now the question is who will open with Smriti if Pratika is not fit to take the field on the 30th? The first option could be to promote Harleen to number three, as she often comes in early and is comfortable facing the new ball,” Mithali said on Geostar. Raval was injured while fielding at deep midwicket against Bangladesh on Sunday when his foot got caught in the damp outfield and his ankle twisted.

He was taken off the field as Arundhati Reddy came in as a substitute fielder. A stretcher was also sent to the field by the ground staff, but it was not needed as the batsman walked off the field with the help of Indian support staff.

Story continues below this advertisement After the injury, India sent Amanjot Singh along with Smriti Mandhana to open the innings, a move Mithali found surprising. “Ideally, today was a great opportunity for Harleen to open and create that equation with Smriti, considering that Pratika may not be available.

If Pratika is fit, the same batting order will continue. But sending Amanjot to open was something I didn’t understand. Yes, she needed some time in the middle, but perhaps she could have come at number three instead of opening.

” The 25-year-old Raval has been in great form throughout the tournament and has scored 308 runs in six innings at an average of 51. 33, including a century. Mithali also suggested the option of wicketkeeper-batsman Uma Chhetri, who replaced Richa Ghosh against Bangladesh.

However, his inclusion in the semi-final XI may depend on the team balance. Story continues below this ad, “The other option is Uma Chhetri, but if Richa Ghosh returns as the wicketkeeper, Uma may sit out. ”.