Picture Credit: Cricbuzz

Battle-hardened Verma not overawed by the big occasion

DY Patil Stadium, October 29: As Shafali Verma settled into her seat at the dais, the routine mic check felt like she had never been away. If she seemed slightly out of place during her first training session on Tuesday, by match eve, her trademark swagger had fully returned.

The same confidence reflected in her batting. Barely 24 hours after rejoining the squad following an unexpected recall due to Pratika Rawal’s injury, Verma’s approach was measured yet fearless. She began with delicate cuts and dabs before unleashing her natural aggression in the open nets, signalling her readiness for the semifinal clash against Australia.

“Of course, what happened with Pratika — as a sportsperson, seeing that doesn’t feel good. But I believe God has sent me here to do something good. It’s a very good opportunity for me, and if I get to play, I’ll give my best,” Verma said on Wednesday, exactly a year since she last played an ODI for India.

The team management has encouraged Verma to back her natural instincts. Though switching from T20 cricket — she was recently playing the Senior Women’s T20 League with Haryana — to ODIs posed a challenge, she made the most of the two training days available.

“As a batter, it’s not easy to switch formats so quickly,” she admitted. “But I’ve had good practice sessions yesterday and today. I stayed calm and batted well. I’m happy with my touch — it’s looking very good for me.”

At just 21, Verma has already experienced multiple high-pressure games, including the 2020 T20 World Cup final loss to Australia at the MCG. She insists that her focus is clear this time. “It’s not something new for me because I’ve played many semifinals before. It’s just a matter of keeping my mind clear and believing in myself. I’ll do well — 200%,” she said with her characteristic confidence.

India, too, have a shot at redemption after an inconsistent group stage where they failed to beat any of the other semifinalists. Verma’s return could bring fresh energy and aggression to the lineup.

“When you’re playing for the country, every match is important. The semifinal means a lot to our country. I won’t think about any baggage. I’ll just focus on playing and giving my best,” she concluded.

A year after fading from the spotlight, Shafali Verma returns wiser, calmer, and yet driven by the same fearlessness that made her one of India’s brightest young stars.

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External Source: ESPN Cricinfo