India skipper Mithali Raj has welcomed the selection of teenager Shafali Verma in all three formats and said it would be crucial to get back to winning ways on the UK tour after the disappointment at home against South Africa.

Robbed of crucial game-time due to the pandemic, India will get the ball rolling with the UK tour comprising a one-off Test, three ODIs and as many T20s.

With the ODI World Cup scheduled in New Zealand early next year, the plans and preparation for 50-over format assumes more significance especially after the loss to South Africa at home.

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Big-hitting opener Shafali’s exclusion from the ODI squad for the South Africa series became a big talking point. The 17-year-old has established herself as a key player in the shortest format over the last 18 months.

Speaking to PTI, Mithali said Shafali’s inclusion in the Test and ODI squad is a big plus and a talent like her must be groomed sensibly.

“Having her in three formats is definitely a plus. And we definitely are looking forward to see how she shapes up (in both the formats),” said the Test and ODI…

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