Visakhapatnam: At the beginning of the year, the idea of Sree Charani representing India in the Women’s World Cup might have seemed like a distant dream. Yet, here she stands, making history as the first cricketer, male or female, from Andhra Pradesh to compete in a World Cup.
The 21-year-old left-arm spinner made a commendable debut against South Africa at home. Her performance against Australia in a high-scoring match was particularly impressive, where she secured 3 crucial wickets for just 41 runs, including those of star players Alyssa Healy, Phoebe Litchfield, and Annabel Sutherland.
India’s coach, Amol Muzumdar, lauded her exceptional talent. “Sree Charani has been outstanding. To concede only around 40 runs in her 10 overs and pick up such vital wickets against a formidable team like Australia is truly remarkable,” he commented.
Charani’s journey from the small town of Yerramala Palle in Kadapa district to the national team is a testament to her dedication. After gaining experience in a couple of WPL matches, she debuted for India in ODIs against Sri Lanka in April, followed by her T20I debut against England in June. Her T20I debut saw her claim an impressive 4 wickets for just 12 runs, and she finished the England tour as the highest wicket-taker with 10 scalps, rapidly earning her a spot in the World Cup squad.
What makes her story even more extraordinary is that cricket wasn’t her first passion. She initially explored badminton, kabaddi, and athletics, only discovering cricket at the age of 16, influenced by her uncle, Kishore Kumar Reddy, who played in his leisure time. Her rapid progression from a late start to international glory is genuinely inspirational.
Image: Sree Charani of India (Photo by Pankaj Nangia/Getty Images)