Meghna Singh: Have you ever wondered what it takes to make it big in the world of cricket? Going from playing on small-town streets to representing your country on the international stage is no easy feat. Meghna Singh’s inspiring journey is a testament to hard work, passion, and perseverance. From her humble beginnings in Uttar Pradesh to making a mark in international cricket, her story is truly remarkable.
The Spark: Discovering Cricket
Meghna Singh wasn’t always focused on cricket. Academics didn’t interest her much, but her father’s love for the sport influenced her. Late-night matches on TV initially seemed boring, but they soon sparked a passion. In a town where girls rarely played cricket, she started competing with boys in gully cricket. A newspaper article about cricket trials changed everything. Though the trials were meant for boys, her aunt encouraged her to attend. That’s where she met coach Lakshyaraj Tyagi, who immediately recognized her potential and asked her to return in a white kit. His simple encouragement set her on the path to professional cricket.
Initially drawn to off-break bowling, Meghna’s coach saw something different in her. He asked her to bowl a fast delivery and, upon seeing her strength, declared she would be a medium-pace bowler from that day forward. This marked a turning point in her cricketing career. In 2008, she joined a cricket academy, traveling 20-25 kilometers daily by bus to train. Practicing with boys created a competitive environment that pushed her to improve.
Overcoming Challenges and Rising Through the Ranks
Coming from a small town, pursuing cricket wasn’t easy. Family support played a crucial role. In 2010, Meghna Singh represented Uttar Pradesh in Under-19 cricket. By 2014, she secured a job with the Railways through the sports quota, which provided financial stability while allowing her to continue playing. Joining the Railways team was a game-changer. Playing alongside legends like Mithali Raj and Jhulan Goswami had a profound impact on her mindset and skills.
In 2021, Meghna Singh made her international debut. One of her most memorable moments was taking the wicket of Australian great Meg Lanning. It was a dream come true. “I thought for the first time that I had to take her wicket. And my debut wicket was her.” Like any athlete, she has faced ups and downs. Learning to handle pressure and expectations has been part of the journey.
The Women’s Premier League and Global Exposure
The Women’s Premier League (WPL) has opened doors for Meghna. Playing in a league with international players has helped her learn different training techniques and gain exposure to diverse playing styles. She values the friendships formed with teammates, particularly with Sneh Rana, and cherishes the camaraderie within the Gujarat Giants team.
Meghna Singh Insights on Cricket and Inspirations
Meghna Singh believes both batters and bowlers play equally crucial roles, despite the difference in recognition. She admires Smriti Mandhana and considers Mithali Raj a legend. Her favorite bowlers include Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Zaheer Khan, and Jasprit Bumrah. Watching international greats like Dale Steyn has influenced her style.
She emphasizes the importance of fitness and specialized practice for aspiring bowlers. Learning to read batters and adapt to different pitch conditions is key. Senior players like Jhulan Goswami have passed down valuable insights that have shaped her game. Fielding, she notes, is just as critical in cricket as batting and bowling.
Looking Ahead
Meghna Singh is optimistic about the future of women’s cricket in India. She sees growing popularity and recognition for female cricketers. She identifies promising young players like Richa Ghosh and Abhishek Sharma as the future of Indian cricket. Personally, she dreams of having coffee with Zaheer Khan, her bowling idol.
Her journey is proof that dedication and hard work pay off. From playing on the streets of a small town to wearing the Indian jersey, Meghna Singh’s story is an inspiration to young athletes everywhere. We wish her continued success in her cricketing career!