BCCI names 15-member India women squad for Asia Cup 2026

The Board of Control for Cricket in India has announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming Women's Asia Cup, with Harmanpreet Kaur retained as captain. The tournament is scheduled to run from late August to mid-September, with India aiming to reclaim the continental title after losing the 2024 final to Sri Lanka.

The squad, unveiled on August 2, shows a blend of continuity and a few notable changes. The experienced core remains intact, with star opener Smriti Mandhana serving as vice-captain alongside established players like Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, and wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh. The pace attack will be led by Renuka Thakur.

The most significant inclusion is 18-year-old wicketkeeper-batter G. Kamalini, who has earned a spot based on consistent performances. Her selection provides a second wicketkeeping option and adds youthful energy to the batting unit. In the bowling department, leg-spinning all-rounder Prema Rawat has been selected. She replaces Shreyanka Patil, who has not recovered in time from an ankle ligament injury sustained during the Women's T20 World Cup earlier this year.

One notable omission is Yastika Bhatia, despite her strong performances...