India announces 15-member Women squad for the Asian Games; Kanika Ahuja gets maiden call-up

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has revealed the 15-member squad for the Indian women’s cricket team participating in the upcoming Asian Games T20 tournament. The announcement brings good news for Richa Ghosh, who makes a comeback after being excluded from the ongoing Bangladesh tour.

The squad also features new faces, with Titas Sadhu and Kanika Ahuja receiving their maiden call-ups. Meanwhile, experienced all-rounder Pooja Vastrakar has been named among the five reserves. Ghosh’s return to the national team adds depth and versatility to the Indian lineup. Her absence during the Bangladesh tour raised eyebrows, but the BCCI selectors have included her in the Asian Games squad.

Sadhu, the promising fast bowler, has impressed selectors with her performances in recent tournaments. Her noteworthy display during India’s triumph at the Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup earlier this year, where she claimed six wickets, played a crucial role in her selection.

Similarly, Ahuja, an all-rounder known for her finishing skills, has been rewarded for her impressive performances in domestic cricket. Representing Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Women’s Premier League (WPL), Ahuja showcased her ability to score quick runs. With 155 runs in six outings at a strike rate of 107.63, she emerged as Punjab’s second-highest run-scorer. Ahuja’s selection provides the team with additional depth in both batting and bowling departments.

While some players have secured their positions, others have faced setbacks. Experienced all-rounder Harleen Deol has been placed on the standby list, indicating the fierce competition within the squad. S Meghana, who didn’t feature in any matches during the recent tour, has been left out entirely.

The spin department sees the return of left-arm spinner Rajeshwari Gayakwad, who was omitted from the Bangladesh tour. Uncapped wicketkeeper Uma Chetry has been preferred over Yastika Bhatia, showing the selectors’ faith in her abilities.

In the bowling reserves, Mumbai Indians’ left-arm spinner Saika Ishaque and Chandigarh’s fast bowler Kashvee Gautam have earned places. Their presence ensures backup options in case of injuries or changes in the playing XI. Harmanpreet Kaur continues to lead the side, with Smriti Mandhana serving as her deputy.

India women squad for Asian Games: Harmanpreet Kaur (capt), Smriti Mandhana (vc), Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), Amanjot Kaur, Devika Vaidya, Anjali Sarvani, Titas Sadhu, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Minnu Mani, Kanika Ahuja, Uma Chetry (wk), Anusha Bareddy

Standby players: Harleen Deol, Kashvee Gautam, Sneh Rana, Saika Ishaque, Pooja Vastrakar

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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July 15, 2023 at 11:15AM