The BCCI has announced India’s squad for the one-off women’s Test against England at Lord’s, with Sneh Rana retaining her place in the red-ball setup and Harleen Deol returning to the side. All-rounders Amanjot Kaur and Kashvee Gautam were unavailable due to injury.
The squad was revealed alongside India’s selections for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup and the T20I series in England, with a few adjustments made as the team prepares for a multi-format tour.
Experienced Core Retained
Harmanpreet Kaur will lead the side, with Smriti Mandhana named vice-captain. The batting group continues to rely on experienced names, including Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues and Deepti Sharma, who are expected to play central roles.
Rana Retained, Deol Returns
Sneh Rana’s inclusion is one of the key decisions, as she retains her spot in the Test squad despite missing out on the T20 World Cup selection. Having featured in India’s previous Test against Australia in Perth, Rana remains a valuable option due to her all-round capabilities.
Harleen Deol’s return strengthens the middle order, adding a composed batting presence along with her fielding contributions. Pratika Rawal has also been retained after featuring in the last Test assignment.
Bowling Options and New Inclusion
Left-arm spinner Sree Charani continues to be part of the setup across formats, reflecting her consistent progress. The pace unit includes Renuka Thakur, Kranti Gaud, Nandini Sharma and Sayali Satghare, offering a mix of experience and emerging talent.
Nandini Sharma’s selection is a notable inclusion, as she earns her maiden call-up after strong performances in domestic cricket and the Women’s Premier League.
Wicketkeeping Choices
India have opted for two wicketkeepers, with Richa Ghosh and Yastika Bhatia both included in the squad. Bhatia’s return from injury adds depth, while also providing a left-handed option in the batting order.
Injury Setbacks
The absence of Amanjot Kaur and Kashvee Gautam is a significant blow, with both players missing out due to injuries. Their unavailability reduces India’s options among seam-bowling all-rounders.
Tour Schedule
India’s tour of England is divided into phases, beginning with a three-match T20I series from May 28 to June 2, followed by the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup starting June 12. The Lord’s Test is scheduled to begin on July 10, shortly after the conclusion of the World Cup.
Squad for Lord’s Test
Harmanpreet Kaur (captain), Smriti Mandhana (vice-captain), Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Pratika Rawal, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), Sree Charani, Yastika Bhatia (wk), Nandini Sharma, Harleen Deol, Renuka Thakur, Kranti Gaud, Sayali Satghare, Sneh Rana.
India’s squad reflects continuity with key returns, while injuries have led to a few enforced changes ahead of the red-ball fixture at Lord’s.
