Navi Mumbai, Oct 26 (NationPress) As India gears up for the crucial second semifinal against Australia at the same venue, they faced a significant concern when opener Pratika Rawal sustained an injury while trying to save a boundary during Match 28 of the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on Sunday.

This injury raises doubts about Pratika's participation in India's semifinal showdown with Australia on October 30.

Unseasonal rainfall disrupted India's campaign, leading to the abandonment of the match and a lost opportunity for victory and a point. However, the major worry for the hosts is Pratika Rawal’s injury just before the critical semifinal. India was at 57 for no loss in pursuit of a DLS revised target of 126 in 27 overs when another downpour forced the umpires to declare the match a no-result.

Rawal, who had scored her maiden World Cup century in the previous match against New Zealand at the same venue, slipped on the wet ground while fielding a shot by Sharmin Akhter off Deepti Sharma in the 21st over, which was shortened to 27 overs due to two rain interruptions that delayed play for nearly four hours.

The BCCI provided an update during India’s innings, stating that their medical team is closely observing her condition.

"Team India all-rounder Pratika Rawal incurred an injury to her knee and ankle while fielding in the first innings against Bangladesh at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. The BCCI Medical Team is diligently monitoring her recovery," the board said.

Rawal aggressively pursued the ball but overran it, twisting her right ankle as she tried to stop and pivot in one fluid motion to prevent the ball from reaching the boundary.

The damp ground conditions and slippery surface were likely contributing factors to her injury, as she fell in an area that had been consistently exposed to rainwater. The ground staff had covered the field, but the long-on section remained uncovered during the afternoon rain.

Umpires Lauren Agenbag and Sue Redfern apparently overlooked this area during their inspection after the second rain delay or deemed it safe enough, considering the ground staff's efforts to dry the field.

However, this decision may now cost India dearly, as they might face the repercussions of proceeding with the match under such precarious conditions.

Pratika is a vital asset to India’s batting order, having developed an excellent partnership with Smriti Mandhana. Together, they have amassed nearly 1500 runs for the opening wicket in One-day cricket this year. Rawal is on track to become the second player to score 1000 runs in a calendar year in ODI cricket, following Mandhana.

Facing the formidable Australians without Pratika would severely compromise India’s chances in the semifinals.