Pratika Rawal

Pratika Rawal is a rising star of Indian cricket whose 2025 season has been defined by record-breaking milestones and a fairytale transition to the international stage. Born on September 1, 2000, in Delhi, she is a psychology graduate and a former national-level basketball player who brings a unique mental calmness to her opening batting. Her 2025 campaign was historic; she became the joint-fastest player in the world to reach 1,000 ODI runs (in just 23 innings) and shattered records with a monumental 154 against Ireland—the highest maiden century by an Indian woman. As a vital part of India’s 2025 ICC Women's ODI World Cup-winning squad, she finished as the team’s second-highest run-scorer with 308 runs, including a match-winning century against New Zealand. Although a late ankle injury sidelined her for the knockouts, her contribution was pivotal in India securing its first-ever global title.

In the franchise arena, Rawal’s breakthrough year culminated in a major move during the 2026 Women's Premier League mega auction in late 2025. After initially going unsold in previous seasons, her world-class form led the UP Warriorz to sign her for ₹50 lakh. Joining a revamped Warriorz squad, she is expected to solve their long-standing opening puzzle, potentially partnering with legends like Meg Lanning. Known for her 'classical' technique and her ability to anchor long innings, she has formed a prolific partnership with Smriti Mandhana at the international level, bringing a sense of stability to the top order. As she prepares for her debut WPL season in January 2026, the Delhi-born opener—often dubbed the 'Lady Virat Kohli' by fans for her consistency—is poised to become one of the most impactful domestic batters in the league.