Tejal Hasabnis made her debut in IND-W vs NZ-W 1st ODI [Source: tejalhasabnis_official16/instagram]
The highly anticipated first ODI between India Women and New Zealand Women at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Thursday saw two debutants take centre stage. As Smriti Mandhana captained the Indian side in Harmanpreet Kaur’s absence, Tejal Hasabnis marked her entry into the Indian team, hoping to make the most of her maiden opportunity.
Who is Tejal Hasabnis?
Tejal Hasabnis, born on August 16, 1997, is no stranger to competitive cricket. A middle-order batter, Hasabnis has been a consistent performer for Maharashtra and West Zone in the domestic circuit.
With 3 First-class matches, 22 limited-overs games, and 22 Women's T20 matches to her name, Hasabnis has steadily risen through the ranks. Her selection in the India Green squad for the 2018–19 Senior Women’s Challenger Trophy was proof of her potential and hard work.
Her maiden call-up for the senior national team is well deserved, given her consistent performances, particularly during the recent India A Women’s tour of Australia in August 2024.
Hasabnis Sparkled for India A in Australia
Tejal Hasabnis' splendid performance in the India A tour of Australia was a crucial factor in earning her a spot in the Indian squad for the ongoing series. She notched up 166 runs in three matches at an impressive average of 55.33, including three half-centuries.
With a strike rate of 75.79, Hasabnis demonstrated her ability to anchor innings while also accelerating when needed. Her calmness under pressure during the Australia tour added to her credentials, making her hard to overlook for the selectors.
Smriti Mandhana Leading the Way
With regular skipper Harmanpreet Kaur sidelined due to a niggle, Smriti Mandhana stepped up to lead the Indian side in the first ODI.
Mandhana will not only be captaining the side but also guiding debutants like Hasabnis, who will be keen to translate her recent form into success at the international level.