A fractured ankle may have ended Pratika Rawal’s World Cup dream, but the determined Indian batter is already looking ahead to a stronger comeback. Rawal, known for her controlled aggression and rapid rise in international cricket, sustained the injury after a match-winning century against New Zealand. Having traded a promising basketball career for cricket at a young age, Rawal has swiftly become a vital part of India’s top order. Her impressive statistics include a record-breaking 1000 ODI runs in just 23 innings, placing her among cricket’s elite. The opening partnership between Rawal and Smriti Mandhana is a force to be reckoned with, amassing nearly 1800 runs and holding the highest average among the top opening pairs in women’s cricket. The World Cup saw Rawal overcome a slow start to deliver a match-defining 122 against New Zealand. However, a mishap on a slippery outfield led to her unfortunate injury, ruling her out of contention. Rawal shared her immediate reaction to the injury, a rare scream of pain, followed by her resolve to walk off the field, prioritizing her return to the game. Her teammates ensured she was part of the World Cup celebrations, highlighting her importance to the squad. Rawal views the injury as an opportunity for growth, focusing on rehabilitation and returning to the game with renewed vigor.
