New Delhi, Jan 26 (NationPress) Seven years is quite a stretch in the world of cricket, and for Bharti Fulmali, it seemed even more prolonged. The explosive middle-order batter from Amravati made her India T20I debut against England in Guwahati back in 2019. She made an impression early on by charging down the pitch to hit Laura Marsh for a boundary with her third ball in international cricket, but she only managed scores of 18 and 5 in her two appearances before being dropped.

As the years passed, Bharti, who works with the Income Tax Department, came to terms with the possibility that her international career might have ended before it truly began. However, on January 17, following the Gujarat Giants' return to Vadodara after their stint in Navi Mumbai during WPL 2026, the BCCI surprised her by announcing her inclusion in India's squad for the T20I series in Australia this February.

"We had just boarded the bus after arriving in Vadodara when my teammates shouted behind me, 'Congratulations!' That was when I found out about my selection. I wasn't even aware that a team announcement was forthcoming," Bharti expressed in an exclusive chat with IANS, just ahead of the franchise's crucial match against Delhi Capitals on Tuesday.

Bharti, who is now set to fly to Australia, is a fundamentally different player compared to the one who had a brief stint with India in 2019. Her return to the national side has been fueled by stellar performances in the ongoing WPL, where she has scored 111 runs in six innings at a remarkable strike rate of 163.23 for GG.

Last season was just as impressive, with 133 runs in four innings at a strike rate of 172.72 – a significant improvement from her 2024 season, where she managed only 64 runs at a strike rate of 120.75. After unsuccessful trials with Kiran Navgire and Sajeevan Sajana, India hopes to rely on Bharti's WPL form as she pairs with Richa Ghosh as a dependable finisher ahead of the T20 World Cup in England.

"There's been a lot of change from my 2019 experience to now. The role I've been given as a finisher is something I strive to excel in, aiming to help my team secure a favorable position. That’s my main focus," Bharti added.

This transformation was not coincidental. Bharti made a deliberate choice to reinvent herself after realizing that returning to international cricket required her to possess formidable lower-order batting skills.

"Initially, I aspired to bat in the top order. However, observing the shifts in cricket, I began to rethink my strategy. If I wanted to compete internationally and in the WPL, I needed to adapt. I noticed that middle-order and lower-order batters were in demand, especially as the state team faced challenges. So I committed to this path, knowing it would require hard work and new skills," Bharti explained.

She attributes her revival to the WPL. After going unsold in the first WPL auction, she joined GG in 2024 as Harleen Deol’s injury replacement, a decision that proved crucial. "My cricket has evolved significantly since the WPL emerged. It has played a vital role in my development, especially with the Gujarat Giants providing me the chance to showcase my talent on this platform," she stated.

Coaching from GG's head coach Michael Klinger and batting coach Dan Marsh has been pivotal in honing her skills as a power-hitter. "When I came in the first year, we discussed my strengths and weaknesses. I focused on hard-hitting practice, utilizing center wickets and open grounds for match simulations, emphasizing my capacity to help the team in tough scenarios," Bharti shared.

Her performances this season, following GG's use of their RTM card to retain her for Rs 70 lakh, have highlighted her finishing skills with innings of 36 not out and 39 against Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Last season, she amazed everyone by scoring her maiden WPL fifty in just 22 balls, putting MI on edge.

Her finishing approach, marked by a calm demeanor, is inspired by the legendary MS Dhoni. "I have certainly adopted many of his qualities because my natural disposition is calm. Watching Dhoni sir handle similar situations as a finisher inspires me greatly. He played a crucial role in winning the ODI World Cup as a finisher, and that motivates me," Bharti remarked.

Bharti's trademark calmness under pressure mirrors Dhoni's. "I handle it well by concentrating on my process. I simulate these situations during practice and even in state games. While there’s no crowd, thinking about them can hinder performance. When I play, I focus solely on the ball and my objectives. Keeping this mindset simplifies things, making it easier to perform well," she elaborated.

Her family support from Amravati has been fundamental to her journey, with her father introducing her to cricket. His pride in her accomplishments continues to motivate her. "I began playing cricket because of my father. He is incredibly proud of my achievements at this level and enjoys watching me play," she said.

Bharti maintains strong ties to her roots in Amravati, regularly consulting with her childhood coach, Sandeep Gawande, at Sant Gajanan Cricket Academy and training at Nagpur Cricket Academy when away from home.

"Whenever I return to Amravati, I practice at that ground. We share an excellent bond, communicating daily. Their guidance, alongside my family, is crucial for my progress," she noted.

Her friends in Amravati have affectionately dubbed her ‘Lady Gayle’, a testament to her big-hitting reputation. "They love calling me that. When I practice in Amravati, they encourage me to hit sixes, saying, 'just hit the ball!' Their support means a lot to me," Bharti shared.

Seven years away from the national team imparted valuable lessons about discipline and perseverance. "I’ve learned that discipline is crucial. I’ve invested considerable time cultivating patience and discipline during my absence from the Indian team. Maintaining a proper diet and regular workouts has been key to my success," she said.

Currently, Bharti’s primary objective is to lead GG into the playoffs. "The standings are wide open now. We aim to play good cricket, and I will strive to meet the team's requirements. We intend to perform well and are hopeful of winning our remaining matches to qualify for the playoffs," she expressed.

Her message to aspiring cricketers reflects her journey over the past seven years: "Pursue your passion. As women, we face numerous challenges, but it’s essential to view them as opportunities to learn. Work diligently, and you will surely see results."