The Indian women’s cricket team gears up for a high-stakes showdown as selectors name a robust 15-player unit for the lone Test match against Australia in Perth, scheduled between March 6 and 9, 2026. Harmanpreet Kaur retains the captaincy, with Smriti Mandhana as her deputy.
Injury-hit Pratikar Raval makes a much-anticipated return, bolstering the batting lineup after her contributions to the World Cup-winning side. Wicketkeeper JI Kamalini’s absence from the tour opens doors for Uma Chettri, who now features across Test, T20I, and ODI squads.
Looking back, India and Australia have locked horns in 11 Tests. Australia boasts 4 triumphs, India one, and 7 stalemates. India’s sole win came in the most recent fixture in December 2023, a result that adds spice to this renewal.
The comprehensive tour comprises three T20Is followed by three ODIs, culminating in the Test. It’s a grueling schedule designed to push the limits of endurance and skill.
Full Test Squad: Harmanpreet Kaur (Captain), Smriti Mandhana (Vice-Captain), Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Amanjot Kaur, Richa Ghosh (Wicketkeeper), Uma Chettri (Wicketkeeper), Pratikar Raval, Harleen Deol, Deepti Sharma, Renuka Singh Thakur, Sneh Rana, Kranti Gaud, Vaishnavi Sharma, Sayali Satghare.
Separately, India ‘A’ squad for the T20 ACC Rising Star Women’s Asia Cup in Thailand has been picked under Radha Yadav’s leadership. Promising talents like Humaira Kazi, Vrinda Dinesh, Anushka Sharma, and others form the core, with Diya Yadav and Mamta M awaiting fitness nods.
As India eyes redemption and growth, this squad selection underscores a blend of experience and emerging talent ready to conquer the Australian challenge.
