New Delhi, Sep 27 (NationPress) As India gears up to host the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup, fast bowling all-rounder Arundhati Reddy stands on the brink of realizing a childhood ambition – representing her nation in this prestigious event.

India is set to pursue its first-ever senior women’s global title in front of a home audience, kicking off their journey on September 30 against co-hosts Sri Lanka at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati.

Arundhati’s aspiration to play in a World Cup for India was ignited by witnessing the MS Dhoni-led team triumph in the 2011 Men’s ODI World Cup on home turf. “To tell the truth, it was the 2007 T20 World Cup victory that motivated me to take up cricket, but the 2011 World Cup, especially with Sachin sir being a part of it, left a lasting impression on me,” she shared.

“The child within me always dreamed of playing for India and clinching a World Cup. Now, with the opportunity to play in a 50-over World Cup at home, I am incredibly thankful to God for this chance. With two matches scheduled in Vizag, the support from fans is crucial. I hope we can secure a victory,” she expressed on JioStar.

When asked about her transition to fast bowling, Arundhati recounted, “I never envisioned myself as a fast bowler; my dream was to be a wicketkeeper. During my first day at coach Ganesh sir's academy, he encouraged me to bowl, and it felt instinctive. A week later, I told my mom that I wanted to focus on wicketkeeping.”

“She spoke with him, and he advised her that if I wanted to be a keeper, I could find a different academy, but if I stayed, I would become a medium-pacer. That’s how my journey as a fast bowler commenced. Shortly thereafter, I was selected for Hyderabad under-19 and then senior cricket,” she explained.

“This opportunity means a lot to me. There was a period when I doubted I would ever wear the India jersey again, and uncertainty loomed over my future. However, making my comeback and donning the jersey once more felt incredibly special,” she added.