A Dream Debut on the World Stage
Wicketkeeper-batter Uma Chetry’s long-awaited moment arrived as she made her ODI debut for India against Bangladesh in their final group-stage match of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025. The game took place at the prestigious DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai. Chetry stepped into the playing XI, replacing the experienced Richa Ghosh, and in doing so, became only the second woman from Assam to represent India in One Day Internationals, following in the footsteps of Ritu Dhrub (2013-2014).
The occasion was made even more special as she received her debut cap from none other than vice-captain Smriti Mandhana. The heartwarming ceremony saw Mandhana praise Chetry’s journey, stating, “Making a debut for India is already a special feeling, and making it in a World Cup is even more special. We have all seen how hard you work. Your fitness and athleticism push everyone in the camp to do better. Keep motivating us and winning matches for India.”
Consistent Rise Through the Ranks
Before her significant ODI milestone, Chetry had already showcased her talent in seven T20 International matches for India. Her most recent T20I appearance was against the West Indies in December 2024, also at the DY Patil Sports Academy. Her impressive performances also earned her a spot in India’s gold medal-winning squad at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou, and she represented India A in the ACC Women’s T20 Emerging Teams Asia Cup earlier that year.
Chetry’s development in domestic and franchise cricket has been remarkably steady. She made her debut in the Women’s Premier League for UP Warriorz in 2023, stepping up as a replacement for the injured Vrinda Dinesh, further cementing her reputation as a player to watch.
A Rain-Affected Day Still Shines Bright
Unfortunately, the final league match itself was heavily affected by persistent rain, which caused multiple interruptions throughout the day and ultimately forced the game to be abandoned. Bangladesh had posted 119 for 9 in 27 overs before the weather intervened once more. India had begun their chase with confidence, reaching 57 without loss in 8.4 overs, but the heavy downpour meant no further play was possible, and the match concluded without a result.
Despite the anticlimactic end to the match, for Uma Chetry, it remained an unforgettable day. It marked the official beginning of her ODI career with India, a testament to her talent and perseverance, even if the weather had the final say on the game’s outcome.