Pooja Vastrakar
Pooja Vastrakar, born on September 25, 1999, in Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh, has emerged as one of the most promising talents in Indian cricket. Renowned for her prowess as an all-rounder, Vastrakar's journey from the streets of Shahdol to representing India on the international stage is a testament to her talent, determination, and resilience. Let's explore the remarkable story of this dynamic cricketer and her journey to cricketing glory.
Vastrakar's cricketing journey began amidst humble surroundings, playing with boys near her neighbourhood in Shahdol. Recognising her talent, coach Ashutosh Shrivastava initiated her formal training, which laid the foundation for her future success. Despite facing challenges, including a knee injury that required surgery and threatened her national call-up, Vastrakar persevered with unwavering determination and dedication.
Vastrakar's breakthrough on the international stage came in 2018 when she made her debut for India against South Africa in both One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is). Her impressive performances caught the eye of selectors, earning her a spot in India's squad for the 2018 ICC Women's World Twenty20 tournament in the West Indies. Although an injury during a warm-up match sidelined her from the tournament, it didn't deter her spirit.
In May 2021, Vastrakar's dream of representing India in Test cricket became a reality when she was named in the squad for the one-off match against England. Making her Test debut on June 16, 2021, against England, she showcased her all-round skills with both bat and ball. Her stellar performance in the match earned her accolades and reinforced her status as a key player in the Indian team.
Vastrakar's crowning moment came in the 2022 Women's Cricket World Cup in New Zealand, where she played a pivotal role in India's campaign. With 156 runs at an average of 26.00 and 10 wickets at an average of 18.30, she emerged as a standout performer in the tournament. Her contributions were instrumental in guiding India to the semi-finals, showcasing her ability to thrive under pressure on the global stage. Furthermore, she was named in India's squad for the cricket tournament at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, England, further cementing her reputation as a vital asset to the team.
Behind Vastrakar's success lies a story of resilience and perseverance. Raised by her father, a retired employee of Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), and surrounded by four sisters and two brothers, she navigated through life's challenges with unwavering determination. The tragic loss of her mother at a young age only strengthened her resolve to succeed in the sport she loves.
Pooja Vastrakar's journey from the bylanes of Shahdol to the international cricketing arena is a testament to her talent, perseverance, and resilience. With her ability to excel in all formats of the game and contribute significantly to the team's success, she has carved a niche for herself in Indian cricket. As she continues to evolve as a cricketer and scale new heights in her career, there is no doubt that Vastrakar will be a force to reckon with in the world of cricket for years to come.
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