Pratika Rawal, India’s opening batter and the second-highest run-scorer in the historic Women’s World Cup 2025, has finally received her winner’s medal after initially being denied it due to ICC regulations.
A recent photograph with Prime Minister Narendra Modi shows Rawal proudly wearing the medal, highlighting her invaluable contribution to India’s triumph.
During the celebrations at DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai, Rawal was seen in a wheelchair, draped in the Indian tricolour, but without a medal, leaving fans emotional. She had been ruled out after sustaining an injury during the washed-out league-stage game against Bangladesh and was replaced by Shafali Verma for the semifinals.
A team photograph at Prime Minister Modi’s official residence on Lok Kalyan Marg in New Delhi revealed the change. Rawal was seen wearing her World Cup medal alongside her teammates, suggesting that the ICC made a rare exception to its rules. Neither the ICC, BCCI, nor Rawal has issued an official statement yet.
Historic Contribution
Rawal scored 308 runs in the tournament, including a century and a half-century, proving herself a key player in India’s historic win. She spoke about the emotional experience of watching the final from the stands:
“It was very difficult for me to watch the match from the outside. But seeing this energy and environment gave me goosebumps. Every wicket, every sixer, the atmosphere was amazing. Being here with my team, wearing this flag on my shoulder, is surreal.”
This moment mirrors past instances in cricket history where significant contributors missed out on medals, such as Jason Gillespie in the 2003 Men’s ODI World Cup.
Rawal’s recognition now underscores the importance of acknowledging every player’s contribution, whether on the field or supporting from the sidelines, reflecting inclusivity and the spirit of teamwork.
