IND-W vs ENG-W 2026: Pratika Rawal Out of One-Off Test at Lord's; Priya Punia Named Injury Replacement
Indian batsman Ajinkya Rawal has been ruled out of the squad for the ongoing England tour due to an injury sustained last week, with all-rounder Rahul Punia named as his replacement. Confirmed today, July 8, 2026, the news impacts India's preparations. While a Men's Test at Lord's against England in July 2026 is highly anticipated, it remains unconfirmed.
India women's preparations for their ongoing tour of England have been impacted by the withdrawal of key batsman Pratika Rawal due to injury. Head coach Amol Muzumdar confirmed today, July 8, 2026, that Priya Punia will step into the squad as Rawal’s replacement. Rawal suffered the injury whilst participating in India A against England A in Taunton last week. Subsequent medical assessments and scans confirmed that she would be unable to recover in time for historic IND-W vs ENG-W One-Off Test 2026 at Lord's, which will the first-ever red-ball match at the Mecca of Cricket. Tammy Beaumont Retires: England Opener Set To Take International Retirement After IND-W vs ENG-W One-Off Test 2026 at Lord's.
The timing of the injury presents a significant selection dilemma for the team management, as Rawal had been widely tipped to open the batting. Her absence deprives India of a key top-order specialist accustomed to handling the moving ball in English conditions.
Priya Punia Recalled to International Setup
In response to the setback, the selection committee opted for experience by drafting in Priya Punia. The 29-year-old right-handed batter brings a wealth of domestic and international experience back into the national framework, having previously represented India across multiple formats.
Punia’s inclusion provides the coaching staff with a technically sound alternative at the top of the order. While it remains unclear whether she will slide straight into the starting XI or if the team will alter their opening combination, her familiarity with multi-day cricket makes her a reliable cover. ENG-W vs IND-W 2026: England Squad Announced for Historic First-Ever Lord's Women's Test Against India.
This one-off fixture carries immense historical significance, marking a rare appearance for the Indian women's national team in a Test match at Lord's Cricket Ground. The squad has been undergoing rigorous acclimatisation sessions in England to adapt to the lower temperatures and pronounced seam movement.
The loss of Rawal adds to the tactical challenges facing India as they prepare to counter a potent English bowling attack on their home turf. Team management will finalise the batting lineup following a final pitch inspection on the eve of the match.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 08, 2026 07:07 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
