SL-W vs IND-W ❘ 3rd ODI Preview ❘ SPOTLIGHT: RENUKA THAKUR

A little-known Renuka Singh Thakur wreaked havoc in the Sri Lankan top-order on 4th July 2022. Playing just her 4th ODI, Thakur displayed pin-point swing bowling to leave the Chamari Athapaththu-led side reeling at 11/3. 

While she trapped one batter in front of the stumps, the other two were castled. Her career-best figures 0f 4/28 in this match laid the foundation for a comprehensive victory. 

But who's this young bowler? What's her story? 

Dream of fulfilling her late father's wishes

Thakur lost her father in 1998 when she was just two years old. He dreamt of witnessing her or her brother donning the Indian jersey, and Thakur took it upon herself to fulfil that ambition. She was well-supported by her mother, who worked tirelessly to meet the ends. 

From backyard cricket to HPCA

Like any other cricket enthusiast, Thakur started by playing backyard cricket with boys. Thakur's uncle admitted her to a cricket academy (under Himachal Pradesh Cricket Academy) in Dharamshala after recognising her inherent talent. Her coach Pawan Sen initiated her to seam bowling, and she polished her skills at the academy. 

Achievements in her short career

Thakur has a hat-trick to her name at the U-19 level against Karnataka that first allowed her to grab eyeballs.

In 2018/19, Thakur claimed 21 wickets in the Senior Women's One Day Trophy. Her brilliant performance in the domestic journey got her into India A squad.

She debuted in the 2021 series against the Aussies. Thakur became the only second female player from Himachal Pradesh to represent the national side after wicketkeeper Sushma Verma. 

Thakur is a calm and composed speedster, which is quite rare for a fast bowler. But as Railways coach Nooshin Al Khadeer opined, Thakur's aggression lies in her calmness. She does not get flustered when hit for a boundary and tries to be consistent with her line and length.

Watch this young Himachali bowler in action against Sri Lanka in the 3rd ODI on 07th July. Indian women have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series.

Match Details:

Match: Sri Lanka Women vs India Women, 3rd ODI

Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele

Date & Time: July 07, 2022, at 10:00 AM IST

Live Streaming: FanCode, DD Sports