Anushka Sharma Earns First Call-Up as India Announces Squad for T20I Series Against South Africa
India has unveiled a 15-member squad, captained by Harmanpreet Kaur, for the upcoming T20I series against the South Africa Women’s Cricket Team, commencing on April 17. A notable highlight is the inclusion of young all-rounder Anushka Sharma, who receives her first international call-up following impressive performances in domestic cricket and the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026. The five-match series will kick off with two games in Durban on April 17 and 19, followed by two matches in Johannesburg on April 22 and 25, and will conclude with the final T20I in Benoni on April 27.
Anushka Sharma’s Breakthrough Moment
Anushka Sharma, a promising all-rounder from Madhya Pradesh, has made a name for herself with her explosive batting and effective bowling in domestic competitions. She was signed by the Gujarat Giants for Rs 45 lakh during the 2026 Women’s Premier League, where she stood out as the most expensive uncapped player. In her debut season with the Giants, Anushka scored 177 runs across seven innings, achieving a strike rate of 129.19. Her performance included a crucial 103-run partnership with Ashleigh Gardner, which helped secure a victory against the UP Warriorz. Additionally, in the U-23 trophy, she amassed 322 runs in eight innings, featuring two centuries and maintaining a strike rate of 128.28. Anushka has also represented various regional and zonal teams, including Madhya Pradesh Women, India C, and Central Zone, showcasing her talent and potential on multiple platforms.
Comebacks with Key Inclusions & Exclusions
The squad sees the return of Bharti Fulmali, who made her comeback during the Australia tour in February. Her inclusion adds depth to India’s middle order. Fast bowler Kashvee Gautam has also been selected, bolstering the seam department alongside Renuka Thakur and Arundhati Reddy. However, senior spin-bowling all-rounder Sneh Rana has been omitted from the squad, along with young talent Vaishnavi Sharma, who participated in the T20I series against Australia earlier this year, and all-rounder Amanjot Kaur. This series is crucial for both teams as they prepare for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, set to begin on June 12 in England. India and South Africa, who faced off in the final of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, will meet for the first time since India claimed victory in that tournament.
India’s Squad for South Africa Tour
The Indian squad for the T20I series against South Africa includes a mix of experienced players and fresh talent. The team is led by Harmanpreet Kaur, with Smriti Mandhana serving as vice-captain. Other key players include Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, and wicketkeepers Richa Ghosh and Uma Chetry. The bowling lineup features Arundhati Reddy, Renuka Thakur, and the newly included Anushka Sharma. The squad aims to build momentum ahead of the T20 World Cup, where they will compete against formidable teams, including Australia and Pakistan, in a highly anticipated tournament.
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