Anushka Sharma Earns First Call-Up for India's T20I Series Against South Africa

India Women's Team Set for T20I Series in South Africa

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially revealed the squad for the Indian women's team, which will compete in a five-match T20I series against South Africa from April 17 to 27. Among the notable inclusions is young all-rounder Anushka Sharma, who is set to make her debut at the national level. The team will continue to be captained by Harmanpreet Kaur, with Smriti Mandhana serving as vice-captain.

The batting lineup features prominent players such as Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Bharti Fulmali, Uma Chetry, and wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh. Anushka, a 22-year-old all-rounder, gained attention during the Women's Premier League (WPL) this year, where she showcased her talent after being signed by the Gujarat Giants, outbidding franchises like Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Mumbai Indians.

In her debut match against UP Warriorz, she made a significant impact with a score of 44 runs off 30 balls, helping the Gujarat Giants secure their first victory in the WPL season. Although the Giants' journey ended in the playoffs with a defeat to Delhi Capitals, Anushka emerged as one of the standout players, amassing 177 runs in seven innings at an average of 25.28 and a strike rate of 129.19.

The bowling lineup for India is a blend of youth and experience, featuring Renuka Thakur, Arundhati Reddy, and Kranti Gaud in the pace department, while Deepti Sharma will lead the spin attack alongside Shreyanka Patil and Shree Charani.

The series will kick off with two matches in Durban on April 17 and 19, followed by games in Johannesburg on April 22 and 25. The final T20I is scheduled for April 27 in Benoni.

India squad for South Africa T20Is: Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Smriti Mandhana (VC), Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (WK), Arundhati Reddy, Renuka Thakur, Kranti Gaud, Shree Charani, Shreyanka Patil, Kashvee Gautam, Bharti Fulmali, Uma Chetry (WK), Anushka Sharma.