Why has Radha Yadav replaced Asha Sobhana for today’s IND vs AUS 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup match?
Left-arm spinner Radha Yadav was called up as a last-minute replacement for Asha Sobhana, who sustained a knee injury during warm-ups after the toss, for the ongoing women's T20 World Cup 2024 game between India and Australia. Earlier, Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur confirmed one change to the lineup, with Pooja Vastrakar replacing Sajeevan Sanjana.
However, the 33-year-old leg spinner, who has played six T20Is for India, suffered an injury and the ICC match referee requested the Australian captain's approval for a replacement.
The Australian captain agreed, allowing Radha Yadav to replace Sobhana in the Indian lineup. According to the official statement from the BCCI, a medical team has been closely monitoring Asha's recovery.
The leg-spinner has played a notable role in the tournament, claiming one wicket for just 22 runs in her four-over spell against New Zealand. She also took a wicket against Pakistan, but her standout performance was against Sri Lanka, where she took three wickets while conceding only 19 runs, contributing to the Women in Blue's 82-run victory.
Meanwhile, Radha, now part of the playing XI, has played 80 T20Is for India, taking 90 wickets with an average of 19.62.
Renuka Singh takes two early wickets for India in the clash against Australia
Australia won the toss and opted to bat first. Renuka Singh was outstanding for India during the powerplay, dismissing Beth Mooney on the fourth ball of the second over for just two runs off seven deliveries, with Radha Yadav taking a sharp catch at backward point. On the next delivery, Renuka removed Georgia Wareham for a golden duck.
Grace Harris and stand-in captain Tahlia McGrath steadied the innings as Australia scored 37 runs in the powerplay. At the time of writing, the Women in Yellow were at 65/2 after 10 overs, with Harris (27 off 32 balls) and McGrath (24 off 20 balls) at the crease. Renuka had taken two wickets for the Women in Blue.