Harmanpreet Kaur to Lead India in Perth Test; Rawal, Sharma, Gaud Included

India’s women’s cricket team has unveiled a refreshed Test squad to face Australia in Perth, marking a significant moment for three rising talents Pratika Rawal, Vaishnavi Sharma, and Kranti Gaud who have earned their first long-format call-ups.

Led by Harmanpreet Kaur, the squad will play the one-off Test following six white-ball matches (3 ODIs, 3 T20Is) beginning February 15. The inclusion of Rawal, Sharma, and Gaud signals India’s intent to strengthen its bench with youthful energy and proven domestic performers.

Key Highlights

• Pratika Rawal: World Cup-winning batter, with 1,110 ODI runs at an average of 50.45, returns after recovering from an ankle injury.
• Vaishnavi Sharma: At just 20 years old, the left-arm spinner continues her rise after excelling in the U-19 World Cup and debuting in T20Is.
• Kranti Gaud: A promising seamer, making her first appearance in the Test setup, adds depth to India’s pace attack.
• Squad Changes: Seven players dropped, including Rajeshwari Gayakwad and Pooja Vastrakar, making way for six new faces.
• Experienced Core: Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Varma, and Jemimah Rodrigues remain key batting pillars alongside the debutants.
• Match Details: One-off Test at WACA Stadium, Perth, March 6–9, 2026.

Sources: The Hindu, ESPNcricinfo, ThePrint, PTI