New Delhi, Nov 20 (NationPress) Nearly three weeks have passed since India claimed the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup title, and the excitement surrounding this remarkable victory remains palpable. All-rounder Sneh Rana, known for her off-spin bowling, expressed her belief that their success was indeed a stroke of luck, attributing this achievement to years of relentless dedication.

“It’s incredibly fulfilling to hold the World Cup trophy after years of toil. Our former players put in tremendous effort and, sadly, were unable to claim the trophy. It was our luck that we could lift it, and that feeling is truly rewarding,” Sneh shared during an event organized by OneDice on Thursday.

Footage of Sneh’s homecoming in Dehradun has gone viral online, and she mentioned that witnessing her mother’s pride was an unforgettable moment. “It took me by surprise. My relatives came to receive me, and the thrill was overwhelming. I will always remember the joy and tears in my mother's eyes. It’s a memory I will cherish forever.”

Sneh also mentioned that the team song, which was created during the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, was finally revealed at the perfect moment following their World Cup win.

“We composed it during the Commonwealth Games three years ago and planned to unveil it at an appropriate time. Finally, after all this time, we were able to share it after winning the World Cup,” she explained.

Following the World Cup, the team had the opportunity to meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu in the national capital. “We had an extensive discussion with the Prime Minister about our challenges and the World Cup. He emphasized the importance of mental health, which was reassuring to hear. He highlighted the need for awareness in this area, and our conversation was fruitful,” Sneh remarked.

Significantly, their World Cup victory has sparked a transformation in societal attitudes within communities across India, particularly in rural areas, as evidenced by the grand receptions received by players Kranti Gaud and N Shree Charani in their hometowns of Ghuwara and Kadapa, respectively.

“Many doubted our ability to succeed, questioning why we even play. Yet we proved them wrong. Witnessing their celebrations upon returning to their villages was heartwarming. I genuinely believe this will inspire others to pursue their dreams,” she said.

“Societal attitudes towards encouraging girls to pursue their ambitions will change, which will be a significant achievement. It should be their choice to play for fun or to pursue it as a career. Whatever path they choose, they must do it passionately. If they wish to build a career, they should work diligently and never lose hope,” she added.

Having debuted for India in 2014, Sneh reflected on the remarkable evolution of public interest and support for women’s cricket since her early days. “I’ve witnessed a tremendous change. When I began, stadiums were often empty, even with complimentary tickets. Today, there’s a huge demand for tickets to watch women’s cricket matches in those same stadiums. The transformation from then to now has been remarkable for women’s cricket.”

The WPL mega auction is set for November 27 in New Delhi. Sneh, who was released by Royal Challengers Bengaluru after stepping in as a replacement for Shreyanka Patil, is not overly concerned about which team will select her.

“I have no expectations. I feel disappointed when expectations aren’t met. I focus on my performance and what lies ahead. I don’t dwell on the future or things beyond my control,” she stated.

Additionally, Sneh highlighted the crucial role of the WPL in fostering talent for the Indian team. “WPL plays a huge part in our development. It serves as a global platform. Many of our emerging talents, such as Kranti Gaud and N Shree Charani, have come through WPL.”

“They are remarkable players emerging from this tournament. They had the chance to showcase their skills and subsequently represented India and won the World Cup. Thus, it holds great significance.”

Sneh will soon travel to Sangli, Maharashtra, to celebrate the wedding of vice-captain Smriti Mandhana to her longtime boyfriend Palaash Muchhal, scheduled for November 23. “We’ll celebrate her wedding news there. We’re thrilled. She’s the first girl from our team to tie the knot. We’re eagerly looking forward to attending her wedding.”