Is India Facing a Major Injury Setback with Arundhati Reddy's Knee Issue?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Arundhati Reddy suffers knee injury during warm-up.
- Potential impact on India’s World Cup campaign.
- Replacement options being considered.
- Team management facing multiple injury challenges.
- Focus on recovery and strategic adjustments.
Bengaluru, Sep 25 (NationPress) India is grappling with a significant injury concern just before their ICC Women’s ODI World Cup opener, as fast bowler Arundhati Reddy was taken off the field in a wheelchair after injuring her left knee during a warm-up match against England on Thursday.
The incident unfolded at the BCCI Centre of Excellence 1 ground when Arundhati, while attempting to catch a powerful drive from former England captain Heather Knight in the 13th over, was struck directly on her left knee.
Having already claimed the wicket of opener Amy Jones earlier, Arundhati collapsed in evident distress. Medical personnel rushed to assist her, and following initial attempts to help her walk, a wheelchair was summoned to transport the bowler off the field.
Consequently, Jemimah Rodrigues stepped in to complete the 13th over. The severity of Arundhati’s injury remains unconfirmed, leaving fans anxious about her availability for India’s opening match against Sri Lanka, scheduled for September 30 in Guwahati.
If Arundhati is unable to participate, this could pose a significant challenge for India in their quest to secure the prestigious title for the first time on home soil. In her absence, India might consider bringing in pacer Sayali Satghare, who is currently on the reserve list.
Previously, India had to draft wicketkeeper-batter Uma Chetry as a replacement for Yastika Bhatia, who also sustained a left knee injury during the World Cup preparatory camp in Visakhapatnam.
The lead-up to the tournament has been tense for India, especially with injuries to pacers like Renuka Singh Thakur, who was sidelined after the WPL 2025 due to a stress injury. Luckily, Renuka managed to regain fitness in time for the World Cup and played in two matches during India’s 2-1 series defeat to Australia.
India also faced uncertainty regarding pace-bowling all-rounder Amanjot Kaur, who experienced a flare-up of a prior back injury during the tour of England and has been training at the CoE to ensure she is match-ready for the World Cup.