Shafali Verma made a remarkable statement in the Senior Women’s One-Day Trophy quarter-final against Bengal, scoring a scintillating 197 off 115 balls. Her innings, which included 11 sixes and 22 fours, was a display of fearless and explosive batting. Thanks to Shafali’s captaincy and her brilliant knock, Haryana posted a huge total of 390 in their 50 overs. Despite Bengal pulling off a record-breaking chase to win, Shafali’s innings stole the spotlight.
The 20-year-old had faced criticism recently due to her struggles in ODIs, including a disappointing series against New Zealand and her subsequent exclusion from India’s squad for the series against Australia. With only 644 runs in 25 ODIs at an average of 23.00, her place in the team had been questioned. However, Shafali’s performance in this match was a bold response to her critics. Her powerful strokeplay, including towering sixes and crisp boundaries, reminded everyone of her immense potential.
Although her T20I career has been successful, Shafali’s ODI journey has been rocky. Her form had been a concern, especially after failing to make an impact in the 2023 series against Australia. But this knock was a glimpse of the fearless Shafali we all know. With over 2,000 runs and 10 fifties in T20Is, her hard-hitting style continues to make her a dangerous batter.
This innings could mark the turning point in Shafali’s ODI career. It’s the confidence booster she needs as she aims to regain her spot in the Indian team and continue her explosive run of form for both Haryana and India Women.
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