A pleasant surprise awaited Indian women’s cricket captain Mithali Raj, who will be leading the country’s challenge in the next month’s World Cup in England, when she walked into the St. John’s Cricket Foundation here on Sunday.
The 34-year-old was visibly delighted at the felicitation function organised to celebrate her appointment as the captain of the Indian team for the next month’s World Cup.
Mithali’s mentor R.S.S.R. Murthy of South Central Railway (SCR) organised the event which was attended by former Hyderabad fast bowler Jyothi Prasad.
Mithali, responding to the gesture, recalled how Jyothi Prasad had urged her father to see that she was into cricket given her passion for the sport. “That’s how my journey began close to two decades ago.”
“And Murthy Sir has always been my mentor and a guiding force right through my career and I am grateful to the St. John’s for always being supportive by providing all the facilities here,” Mithali said.
“I strongly believe there is a bright future for women’s cricket and many girls can look up to the game as a career for it has more glamour and money than when I started off playing,” the Indian captain pointed out. “But to be successful, you have to have the desired commitment and determination to grow,” she added.
For his part, Murthy lauded the consistency of Mithali at the highest level. “She is the epitome of class and consistency and is a champion in her own way in women’s cricket. She is an inspiration for all budding cricketers who aspire to be big in the game,” he said.
Jyothi Prasad also felt that what separated Mithali from the rest was her self-belief and mental toughness apart from her talent.
“It’s not often that cricket sees such successful players for such a long time. I wish she realises the dream of winning the World Cup this time around,” he said.
Noshin Al Khadeer, former India all-rounder, also graced the occasion.
