NEW DELHI: Former West Indies fast bowler Ian Bishop believes India should field an extra specialist bowler against Australia in the Women’s ODI World Cup semifinal in Navi Mumbai on Thursday.

India have largely relied on a mix of five batters, a wicketkeeper and five bowlers, three of them being all-rounders. That balance has worked in patches but also shown its limits in defeats to South Africa, Australia and England. In the must-win game against New Zealand, India brought in pacer Renuka Thakur for all-rounder Amanjot Kaur to strengthen their attack.

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“I would like India to have that extra bowling depth and let the batters take responsibility,” Bishop said on JioStar. “With Australia’s batting depth, I’d prefer one more bowling option. I don’t like part-timers in such a big game. Back your top order to get the runs but always have a fallback, especially on a good batting surface like DY Patil.”

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Australia’s batting strength, he said, makes them a difficult side to contain. “If you go in with just five specialist bowlers, Australia will target one or two to put pressure on India. That could force Harmanpreet Kaur to use herself or other part-time options. It’s always good to have an all-rounder who can bat and bowl when needed,” Bishop added.

In a setback for India, opener Pratika Rawal has been ruled out of the tournament after injuring her ankle and knee in the last group match against Bangladesh. Shafali Verma, who has been short on runs, has been called up as her replacement and is likely to open with Smriti Mandhana.

“It’s about hoping she’s been working on her game,” Bishop said. “Her form hasn’t been great but this is a one-off match. She should come in relaxed and ready to make the most of the opportunity.”

Bishop also urged India to stay aggressive when they are on top. “If wickets have fallen, don’t sit back and push the fielders deep. Keep the pressure on. Players like Ashleigh Gardner, Phoebe Litchfield and Beth Mooney can rebuild and change the game if given space,” he said.

“You have to be willing to risk losing in order to win. That’s the kind of intent India needs to show,” Bishop added.

(With PTI Inputs)