Explained: Why Pratika Rawal Didn't Get a Medal in India's World Cup Win

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Cricket Gully
Tue Nov 04 12:36:34 IST 2025
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India's first-ever Women's ODI World Cup title has given way to innumerable emotional moments-from Harmanpreet Kaur lifting the trophy to Shafali Verma's beaming smile after her match-winning knock.

 

But among these joyous moments, one frame stands out, and that is, Pratika Rawal, sitting in a wheelchair, eyes filled with emotion as India celebrated their 52-run win over South Africa in the final at DY Patil.

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Rawal's Crucial Role in India's WC Campaign

 

Pratika Rawal, 25, was one of India's best batters during the group stages.

 

  • Matches played: 6
  • Total runs: 308
  • Average: 51.33
  • Rank: 2nd highest run-scorer for India, 4th overall in the tournament

 

Her consistent batting helped India build a strong base early in the World Cup. Rawal's ability to handle pressure in tough games made her one of the most dependable players in the lineup.

 

Unfortunately, this journey took an unexpected turn when a serious ankle injury befell her in the final group-stage outing against Bangladesh and she was ruled out for the rest of the tournament.

 

Also Read | First Ever! Deepti Sharma Creates Rare Record in World Cup History

 

The ICC Rule That Cost Rawal a Medal

 

 

Shafali Verma was brought into the 15-member squad as her replacement after she was injured. According to the rules set by ICC, only those players who form part of the final 15-member squad at the end of the tournament are entitled to winner’s medals.

 

So, despite being one of India's key players in their journey to the title, Pratika Rawal didn't get a medal when India lifted the trophy.

 

Ironically, Shafali Verma, who replaced her, played one of the greatest World Cup final innings-scoring 87 runs off 78 balls-and was named Player of the Match in the final.

 

This is not the first time an incident of this nature has taken place. Jason Gillespie, the Australian pacer, had missed out on the medal during the 2003 Men’s ODI World Cup, owing to an injury, as Nathan Bracken replaced him and ultimately received the winner’s medal.

 

A Bitter-Sweet Ending for Rawal

 

It hurts-a fact that sports is full of uncertainties-she played a huge role in India's path to glory, but couldn't be a part of that final celebration. Yet, her contribution remains an unforgettable part of India's historic World Cup win.

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