India Eyes Momentum in Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 with Richa’s Fitness Under Spotlight Against Bangladesh

All the places in the knockout rounds are confirmed, and for co-host India, their semifinal opponent remains Australia, regardless of the outcome of Sunday’s match in the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025.

When India takes on Bangladesh in the final league match at the DY Patil Stadium, there’s still much at stake for both teams, despite being labeled a ‘dead rubber.’

India aims to maintain its momentum and manage player workloads ahead of the semifinals. The fitness of wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh is a concern after she injured her left hand during the crucial victory over New Zealand earlier in the week. Richa, who had to leave that match partway through, skipped Saturday’s optional training session attended by only five Indian players. Given her pivotal role in the team, India might opt to rest her on Sunday.

Additionally, weather could impact the match, with continuous rain expected throughout the day in the Navi Mumbai area. On an overcast Saturday afternoon, Indian players Arundhati Reddy, Uma Chetry, Radha Yadav, Amanjot Kaur, and Harleen Deol practiced at the stadium’s side nets, while Pratika Rawal met with head coach Amol Muzumdar at the team hotel.

If the weather permits, India’s strategy team may use this match to test its bench strength and refine combinations in preparation for the knockout phase.

For Bangladesh, this game holds more significance. A victory would not only help them avoid finishing last in the eight-team table but could also elevate them to sixth place. Such a move would result in a substantial financial reward — Rs. 3.4 crore in prize money compared to the Rs. 2.8 crore for the bottom two teams.

While the semifinal pairings are already set, the India-Bangladesh encounter retains its importance — for maintaining form, ensuring fitness, and upholding pride — promising an engaging spectacle for the DY Patil crowd beyond a mere formality.

Published on Oct 25, 2025.