NEW DELHI: In a significant blow to their
Patil, 23, sustained the injury while fielding during India’s Group A match against the Netherlands on Wednesday. She injured her right ankle during her first over and was subsequently stretchered off the field, marking an abrupt end to her participation in the tournament.
Impact of Patil's Injury on the Team
The absence of Patil is a significant setback for the Indian squad, particularly as she had just made her return to international cricket after recovering from a previous injury. In her earlier match against Pakistan, she had delivered a commendable performance, conceding only 17 runs in three overs, which had bolstered the team's bowling lineup. Her recent form had been promising, making her injury all the more unfortunate for the side led by
According to a statement from the International Cricket Council (ICC), Patil will not participate further in the tournament following her injury during the match against the Netherlands.
Prema Rawat Steps In
In light of Patil's withdrawal, the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Event Technical Committee has approved the inclusion of Prema Rawat in the Indian squad. An official ICC release confirmed that Rawat was selected as Patil's replacement after the injury was assessed.
Rawat, who was already in England as part of the India A squad, will now join the senior team for the remainder of the World Cup. Although she has yet to make her international debut, the 24-year-old leg-spinner has garnered attention for her impressive performances in domestic competitions, including the Women’s Premier League and the Women’s Asia Cup Rising Stars tournament, where she took eight wickets at an impressive average of 9.62.
With Patil sidelined, Rawat now has a crucial opportunity to showcase her skills on the international stage as India pursues its first Women’s T20 World Cup title.
