India's preparation for the upcoming ICC Women's ODI World Cup has faced a setback as India's star middle-order batter Jemimah Rodrigues was ruled out on Wednesday of the final two ODIs against Australia after falling ill due to a viral infection and subsequent weakness. The 25-year-old Rodrigues featured prominently in the series opener with her fluency through the stroke play and after being checked over by medical staff has been advised to rest. The experienced all-rounder has played in 21 ODIs and 58 T20Is, with ODI batting averages of 38.18 and provides the stability of being a reliable anchor in India's middle-order through her ability to change gears with both spin and fast-bowlers. 

The BCCI confirmed the news on Wednesday saying that it is her health and recovery is the first priority as India prepares for the 2025 Women's World Cup playing at home.

Rodrigues out, Hasabnis brings balance to India’s ODI squad

Tejal Hasabnis has been named as Rodrigues's replacement in the squad. Hasabnis, a 28-year-old versatile all-rounder from Pune, has ODI experience with her debut being against New Zealand in October 2024, and an established domestic career that gives balance in the squad. A right-hander and off spinner, she has played for Maharashtra and West Zone since 2019 and has looked very comfortable at the international level.

Earlier this year, Hasabnis showed her capacity to play long innings by scoring a bruising 169 in a multi-day domestic match. In addition to her run scoring, she brings 45 wickets in first-class cricket to the table as well, so she offers a valuable bowling option for skipper Harmanpreet Kaur. Interestingly, she received her first ODI cap from Rodrigues herself, signifying what seems to be a passing of the baton or torch.

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India's Updated Squad:

Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Smriti Mandhana (VC), Priya Punia, Harleen Deol, Yastika Bhatia (WK), Richa Ghosh (WK), Tejal Hasabnis, Deepti Sharma, Minnu Mani, Priya Mishra, Radha Yadav, Titas Sadhu, Arundhati Reddy, Renuka Singh Thakur, Saima Thakor.

Current circumstances of the series

The three-match WODI series has an important role in India's World Cup preparations. Australia leads 1 - 0, following an exceptionally convincing victory against India in the opening match in Mumbai, which has exposed some weaknesses in India's top order. The second ODI is today, September 17, at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, with the third ODI scheduled for September 20.

Speaking ahead of the game, captain Harmanpreet Kaur said in her media conference: "Jemimah is a fighter and will be back stronger. Tejal has shown great potential. This is her chance to play on the big stage." Fans have also got behind Hasabnis, celebrating her strong domestic form, and wishing her numerous well cards in the match on Tuesday.

For India, the attention now turns to recovering quickly and focusing on this unplanned change, turning it into an opportunity. With the World Cup now only one month away, every game, and every chance to bleed some new faces into the team is important.