India’s last chance to fix No.3 and sixth-bowler woes before Australia

India’s only defeat to Bangladesh in women’s ODIs came in 2023, when the Women in Blue toured Bangladesh for a three-match series. While the scoreline read an unremarkable 1-1, the contest was anything but dull. The series was fiery and full of drama, none more so than when Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur openly expressed her frustration after being adjudged out. Her post-match comments and gestures criticising the umpiring still remain fresh in memory.

Fast forward to the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, and the two teams are set to face off once again, this time in Navi Mumbai on Sunday. The context, however, is vastly different. Bangladesh have already bowed out of the tournament, while India, the two-time finalists, have sealed their place in the semi-finals.

Before India take on defending champions Australia in the semi-final at the same venue on Thursday, the clash against Bangladesh serves as a final opportunity to iron out lingering flaws. Despite six matches into the campaign, India’s playing XI still doesn’t look fully settled.

The biggest concern remains the lack of a sixth bowling option. The management also faces a key selection dilemma — whether to persist with Jemimah Rodrigues at No. 3 after her crucial knock against New Zealand, or revert to Harleen Deol, who has occupied that position in five of India’s six matches. If Rodrigues retains her spot, Amanjot Kaur could replace Harleen to add bowling depth and strengthen the lower order.

These may appear to be minor adjustments, but not having a consistent, winning combination could hurt India in the knockout stages. The other semifinalists — Australia, England, and South Africa have looked balanced and composed, and notably, each has exploited India’s weaknesses during the league phase.

A match against a relatively weaker Bangladesh side may not provide India with a complete picture of their strengths and shortcomings. Still, it presents a crucial chance to fine-tune strategies, settle combinations, and address gaps before the high-stakes semi-final.

While India have plenty to play for, Bangladesh — with just one win in the tournament — will aim to bow out with pride, especially after showing flashes of brilliance against South Africa and four-time champions England.

Head-to-Head

Overall: India – 6, Bangladesh – 1

In India: India – 3, Bangladesh – 0

At World Cups: India – 1, Bangladesh – 0

ICC ODI Rankings: India – 3, Bangladesh – 7

Match details

Date: October 26, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM
Venue: Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai
Live streaming: Star Sports Network, JioHotstar