Shafali Verma was dropped from India's limited-overs squads primarily due to decline in form and consistency at the top of the order, as noted by multiple cricket analysts and selectors around late 2024 and 2025. The decision was framed as a move toward higher stability and predictability in the batting lineup, especially given the team’s emphasis on building a reliable opening combination alongside Smriti Mandhana and the rising Pratika Rawal. Verma’s ODI numbers in 2024–25 showed gaps in scoring and a lower strike-rate relative to her batting peers, which contributed to the selection panel's evaluation that other options offered a more consistent platform for India’s transitions and goals in major tournaments like the World Cup cycle. In her absence, Rawal and Mandhana were paired to provide steady starts, while Verma was later recalled in some fixtures as teams balanced form, injuries, and tactical needs.