Will Renuka and Arundhati Boost India's Chances in 2nd ODI Against Australia?
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Synopsis
In an exciting turn of events, Renuka Singh Thakur and Arundhati Reddy return to the Indian lineup as Australia opts to bowl first in the vital second ODI. Can this strategic shift help India rebound and level the series? Read on for all the insights and analysis.
Key Takeaways
- Renuka Singh Thakur and Arundhati Reddy make a comeback.
- Australia opts to bowl first after winning the toss.
- India has adjusted its bowling strategy for improved performance.
- Jemimah Rodrigues is out due to health issues.
- Match being held at Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium.
New Chandigarh, Sep 17 (NationPress) Renuka Singh Thakur and Arundhati Reddy are back in the Indian squad as Australia won the toss, opting to bowl first in the second ODI at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium on Wednesday.
Leading the three-match ODI series 1-0 after a victory by eight wickets in the first match, Australia has put India in a position where they need to perform well to level the series. The inclusion of Renuka is particularly exciting, marking her return to ODI cricket after her last appearance in December 2024 against the West Indies.
Due to a stress fracture sustained after the WPL 2025, she has been recovering and is now ready to contribute to the Indian team in the 50-over format. Renuka and Arundhati replace N Shree Charani and Jemimah Rodrigues, who is out of the series because of viral fever.
This change provides India with six bowling options, a shift from the five-bowler strategy that did not yield the desired results in the series opener. "We feel comfortable with this adjustment and are eager to bat today. We have identified areas for improvement, focusing on matchups and strategic decision-making against bowlers," stated Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur.
Australia's captain Alyssa Healy mentioned that Darcie Brown and Georgia Voll have been brought in for Kim Garth and Phoebe Litchfield. "We appreciate how well the wicket played under the lights. After a couple of good days off, the team is in high spirits, and we are striving to fine-tune our performance throughout the series," she added.
Playing XIs
India: Smriti Mandhana, Pratika Rawal, Harleen Deol, Harmanpreet Kaur (captain), Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), Sneh Rana, Arundhati Reddy, Radha Yadav, Renuka Singh Thakur, and Kranti Goud
Australia: Alyssa Healy (captain & wk), Georgia Voll, Ellyse Perry, Beth Mooney, Annabel Sutherland, Ashleigh Gardner, Tahlia McGrath, Georgia Wareham, Alana King, Darcie Brown, and Megan Schutt
Point of View
The return of key players like Renuka Singh Thakur and Arundhati Reddy is a significant boost for India in the second ODI against Australia. While Australia leads the series, the strategic adjustments made by the Indian team reflect their commitment to capturing victory and showcasing the depth of their talent.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the players returning to the Indian squad?
Renuka Singh Thakur and Arundhati Reddy are returning to the Indian team for the second ODI.
Why was Jemimah Rodrigues ruled out?
Jemimah Rodrigues was ruled out of the series due to viral fever.
What is the current series status?
Australia leads the three-match ODI series 1-0.
Where is the match being played?
The match is taking place at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh.
What tactical changes has India made?
India has introduced six bowling options by including Renuka and Arundhati, aiming for a stronger performance.
