WPL 2025: Renuka Singh's Inspiring Cricket Journey

Synopsis

In her third season with RCB in the WPL, Renuka Singh Thakur has excelled, taking 10 wickets in seven matches. Her journey from humble beginnings to becoming a top fast bowler highlights her dedication to fulfilling her late father's dream.

Key Takeaways

Renuka Singh Thakur has taken 10 wickets in seven matches.
She started playing cricket in her village with a cloth ball.
Renuka aims to fulfill her late father's dream through cricket.
After her U-19 team setback, she worked harder to prove herself.
She sought advice from cricket legend Jasprit Bumrah on handling pressure.

Bengaluru, March 10 (NationPress) In her third season with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Women’s Premier League (WPL), Renuka Singh Thakur has truly found her stride, taking 10 wickets in just seven matches so far. Her journey from her modest village, where she played with a cloth ball, to becoming India’s premier fast bowler is nothing short of remarkable.

Cricket was more than just a game for Renuka; it represented the unfulfilled aspirations of her late father, a dream she committed herself to realizing against all odds.

“As a child, I hadn’t seen much cricket; it started as a pastime. I enjoyed playing. Our village had a rule to play with a cloth ball, which required fast throwing to cover distance. That’s how I became a fast bowler. I hadn’t discussed my dad much with my mom until she revealed that it was his hobby. He wished for at least one of his children to pursue it. This inspired me to take cricket seriously, knowing it was my dad's dream,” she shared.

Renuka’s road to triumph was fraught with challenges. She relocated to join a cricket academy, gradually advancing her career. However, when she believed she was on the verge of success, she faced a setback by being excluded from the U-19 team, a blow that deeply affected her.

“There were numerous challenges during that time, including family issues and my brother's accident. I struggled to cope. But I enjoy challenges, and after being dropped from the U-19 team, I motivated myself to prove them wrong. I committed to working hard to enhance my performance,” she recounted.

Her unwavering determination paid off when she made her India debut against Australia in October 2021. In 2023, RCB selected her for the inaugural WPL season. Although she secured only one wicket in her debut season, she remained a diligent learner, seeking guidance from the best, including Jasprit Bumrah, on managing pressure.

“I had an extensive talk with him post-WPL. I felt overwhelmed by pressure, so I asked for his advice. He mentioned that the more matches you play, the more accustomed you become to it. The increase in viewers amplifies pressure, but the key is how you manage it,” she disclosed.

Now performing at her peak, Renuka has claimed 10 wickets and has held the purple cap at various intervals throughout the season. Competing for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the WPL has been an exhilarating experience for her.

“I feel fortunate to represent RCB because of their amazing fanbase. When we enter the stadium, the entire crowd chants RCB. It’s invigorating when the audience chants our name, providing us with a boost. Overall, women’s cricket has significantly progressed in recent years. There are now numerous facilities, increased financial support, and many individuals see a potential career in this sport. When I return home, children in my village aspire to be like me, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to know that I inspire others,” she concluded.