Why Pratika Rawal Didn’t Get the Women’s World Cup Winner’s Medal: Full Story Explained

Why Pratika Rawal Didn’t Get the Women’s World Cup Winner’s Medal: Full Story Explained

Pratika Rawal — India’s rising cricket star — played a key role in the 2025 ICC Women’s World Cup, scoring 308 runs and guiding India to the knockouts. But when India lifted the trophy, fans were shocked to see that Pratika didn’t receive a winner’s medal.

Rising Star Who Shone Bright in the Group Stage

Pratika Rawal was one of India’s biggest strengths during the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup.
With 308 runs at an average of 51.33, she was India’s second-highest run-scorer and a vital force behind the team’s dominant group-stage performance.
Fans expected to see her celebrate with the trophy — but things took an unexpected turn before the knockout matches.

The Injury That Changed Everything

During India’s final group-stage game against Bangladesh, Pratika suffered a serious knee and ankle injury.
Doctors advised her complete rest, ruling her out of the semifinal and final matches.
As per ICC rules, India had to officially replace her in the 15-member squad — and Shafali Verma took her place for the remaining matches.  Why Pratika Rawal Didn’t Get the Women’s World Cup Winner’s Medal: Full Story Explained

 ICC Rule Behind the Medal Snub

According to the International Cricket Council (ICC), only those players who are part of the official squad at the tournament’s conclusion are eligible for a winner’s medal.
Since Pratika was formally substituted due to injury, she was no longer registered in India’s final squad at the end of the tournament.
That’s the sole reason she didn’t receive the winner’s medal, even after her brilliant contributions in the earlier rounds.    Why Pratika Rawal Didn’t Get the Women’s World Cup Winner’s Medal: Full Story Explained

Emotional Reactions From Fans and Teammates

While the rule is technically justified, fans and teammates expressed sadness over the situation.
Many called it “unfair but unavoidable.”
Social media flooded with support for Pratika, praising her for helping India reach the knockout stage.
Even after the final, a viral clip showed her smiling in a wheelchair, dancing with Jemimah Rodrigues and Harmanpreet Kaur — proving her unbreakable spirit.    Why Pratika Rawal Didn’t Get the Women’s World Cup Winner’s Medal: Full Story Explained

 A Hero Without a Medal, But Not Without Glory

Pratika Rawal’s story is one of courage, heartbreak, and inspiration.
Though an unfortunate injury cost her the medal, her contribution to India’s World Cup triumph will never be forgotten.
She remains a symbol of passion and perseverance, reminding the world that true champions don’t always wear medals — sometimes, they wear smiles.    Why Pratika Rawal Didn’t Get the Women’s World Cup Winner’s Medal: Full Story Explained.

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