India suffered a major injury scare during their Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 clash against the Netherlands after star all-rounder Shreyanka Patil was forced off the field following a painful ankle injury at Headingley, Leeds, on Wednesday. The incident left players, team management, and fans concerned, especially given Shreyanka’s unfortunate history of injuries and India’s demanding tournament schedule.
The worrying moment unfolded on the very first delivery of the sixth over of the Netherlands innings. Operating from around the wicket, Shreyanka tossed up a delivery on middle stump that Dutch batter Phebe Molkenboer gently worked into the leg side. While the midwicket fielder managed only a partial stop, Shreyanka sprinted across the field to cut off any additional runs. However, as she attempted to gather the ball, she landed awkwardly and immediately appeared to be in significant discomfort.
The 23-year-old collapsed to the ground clutching her right ankle, prompting an immediate response from teammates and medical staff. Concern quickly spread across the Indian camp as Shreyanka remained on the turf for several minutes while receiving treatment. The situation looked particularly serious when she was unable to put any weight on her injured leg during the initial assessment.
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In a concerning development for India, Shreyanka was eventually stretchered off the field and transported away in a medical buggy. Her departure raised fresh doubts over her availability for the remainder of the Women’s T20 World Cup, with India still set to face strong contenders South Africa and Australia in crucial group-stage fixtures. Shafali Verma completed the remainder of the over after Shreyanka’s exit.
Following the incident, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) issued an official update on the all-rounder’s condition. “Shreyanka Patil picked up an injury while attempting to field the ball and was stretchered off the field. We wish her a speedy recovery as we await further updates,” the board said in a statement.
🚨 𝗨𝗣𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘
Shreyanka Patil picked up an injury while attempting to field the ball and was stretchered off the field.
We wish her a speedy recovery as we wait for further updates. pic.twitter.com/k7upvdRDJh
— BCCI Women (@BCCIWomen) June 17, 2026
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The latest setback is particularly unfortunate given Shreyanka’s lengthy battle with injuries over the past two years. She spent nearly 16 months away from competitive cricket after suffering a fractured finger during the Asia Cup. Although she recovered in time to represent India at the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup, her return was interrupted by Grade 3 shin splints in both legs, forcing her to miss several months of action, including the entire 2025 Women’s Premier League season for Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
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Earlier this year, Shreyanka made an inspiring comeback during India’s T20I series against Australia, producing a match-winning performance in the series decider and earning the Player of the Match award. If she is ruled out of the tournament, India could turn to experienced left-arm spinner Radha Yadav as a replacement. Meanwhile, the team will anxiously await medical reports ahead of their crucial Group A showdown against South Africa in Manchester on June 20.
