Former wicketkeeper Saba Karim suggested that India might bring back Renuka Singh for the Women's World Cup 2025 clash against Pakistan on Sunday in Colombo. Renuka, who recently returned during the ODI series against Australia after a six-month break following the Women’s Premier League, had missed India’s opener against Sri Lanka on September 30 in Guwahati.
Karim noted that if Renuka returns, young pacer Kranti Gaud, who took one wicket against Sri Lanka, might make way, particularly given Amanjot Kaur’s strong performance. “Renuka remains an instrumental bowler for the side. She has a wicket-taking ability and brings in-swing to right-handers,” Karim said.
Renuka could be key against Pakistan’s top order, which struggled against Bangladeshi in-swing bowlers recently. Karim explained, “Pakistan batters were susceptible to incoming deliveries. Renuka’s skills in these conditions may prompt India to include her in place of Kranti Goud. The team remains flexible based on conditions and opposition.”
India began their campaign with a 59-run win over Sri Lanka and currently sit fourth in the points table with a net run rate of 1.255. With a perfect head-to-head record of 11 wins against Pakistan since 2005, India enters the match as favourites.
Tune in: Catch India vs Pakistan in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 on October 5, LIVE on JioHotstar and the Star Sports Network.
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