3 players who could replace Shreyanka Patil if she is ruled out of Women's T20 World Cup 2026

Shreyanka Patil injured herself in the match against Netherlands on Wednesday.

India’s Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign has been overshadowed by a fresh injury concern after all-rounder Shreyanka Patil suffered an ankle injury during the clash against the Netherlands at Headingley on Wednesday. The off-spinner went down while bowling her first over of the innings and required immediate medical attention before eventually being stretchered off the field.

The incident occurred during India‘s second group-stage fixture of the tournament and raised concerns over the availability of one of the team’s frontline spin-bowling options. The extent of the injury is yet to be officially confirmed, but the sight of Shreyanka leaving the field on a stretcher immediately put the focus on India’s backup options for the remainder of the competition.

Shreyanka has played an important role in India’s white-ball setup since returning from a lengthy injury layoff that kept her out of action for much of 2025. With crucial World Cup matches against South Africa, Bangladesh and Australia still to come, the team management could be forced to consider a replacement if the ankle injury sidelines her for the rest of the tournament.

Let’s look at the three players who could replace Shreyanka Patil in India’s T20 World Cup setup.

Players who could replace Shreyanka Patil if she is ruled out of Women’s T20 World Cup 2026

1. Tanuja Kanwar

Tanuja Kanwar emerges as the strongest like-for-like replacement. The left-arm spinner has been around the national setup and previously stepped into India’s plans when Shreyanka suffered a finger injury during the 2024 Women’s Asia Cup.

Kanwar has also built a strong reputation in domestic cricket and the Women’s Premier League through her accuracy and ability to bowl during the middle overs. Her experience of operating under pressure makes her a realistic option if India seek a specialist spinner.

2. Sneh Rana

Sneh Rana‘s omission from the World Cup squad surprised many given her experience across formats. The off-spinning all-rounder has represented India extensively and remains one of the most accomplished spin-bowling all-rounders in the domestic circuit.

Her ability to strengthen both the batting and bowling departments could make her an attractive replacement option. Rana’s experience in ICC events and overseas conditions would also provide additional depth to a relatively young spin group.

3. Saika Ishaque

Saika Ishaque is another player who could come under consideration if India require a specialist spin replacement. The left-arm spinner has previously been part of India’s T20I setup and has consistently performed in domestic competitions.

Ishaque first came into national contention after her standout performances in the Women’s Premier League, where she emerged as one of the leading wicket-takers. Her ability to extract turn and attack batters during the powerplay and middle overs could offer India a different tactical option if Shreyanka is unavailable.

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