Pooja Vastrakar’s fitness under scanner for India’s do-or-die match against Sri Lanka

Not only Sri Lanka but also injuries stand between India and their semifinal qualification chances at the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024. On the eve of the match, India’s women’s cricket team vice-captain Smriti Mandhana gave two important updates.

Vastrakar injury update

Mandhana informed that Harmanpreet Kaur, India’s captain and most experienced player, has recovered from her neck injury and will take the field in Dubai on October 9. However, Vastrakar’s availability remains doubtful. Asked about the all-rounder’s status, Mandhana said, “The medical team is still working on her. The update will come only tomorrow.”

Mandhana didn’t look confident when talking about the all-rounder, and the images didn’t inspire much confidence. Vastrakar did turn up for practice yesterday but with significant strapping on her left foot and right thigh. The only good news was that she did bowl in the nets.

Bankable batter

Vastrakar has been instrumental in Team India’s success this year. Before missing the Pakistan game, she’d featured in all 16 games India has played in 2024. She isn’t just a tried and tested bowler but also a proficient lower-order hitter.

The India vs Sri Lanka match is a virtual knockout. Already placed 4th on the points table in Group A, a defeat would seal India’s fate in the Women’s T20 World Cup. Therefore, India needs a full-strength team. One can’t forget that Sri Lanka downed India in their last encounter in the Women’s Asia Cup Final on July 28.