Eight matches in, averaging 94 — 24-year-old Pratika Rawal has made a sensational start to her international career.
Her steady, uncomplicated style of play has led to one of the most impressive debuts in international cricket — across both the men’s and women’s games. After her match-winning performance against Sri Lanka in the opening fixture of the Tri-Nation Series, Rawal followed up with a composed 78 off 91 balls against South Africa, once again laying a solid foundation for India at the top of the order.
Her crisp footwork, clean strokeplay, and uncluttered mindset resulted in a fifth consecutive half-century. While vice-captain Smriti Mandhana has often taken on the role of early aggressor, Rawal has seamlessly adopted the anchor’s role — taking the game deep, all while offering no opportunities to the opposition bowlers.
“It’s years of hard work coming together now,” Rawal said after being adjudged Player of the Match against Sri Lanka.“I’m very lucky and fortunate to have got this opportunity. I’m just trying to play each ball on merit — there’s nothing more that goes through my mind.”
During her knock against South Africa, Rawal became the fastest woman to reach 500 runs in One–Day Internationals — achieving the milestone in just eight matches, surpassing the previous record held by former England batter and current coach Charlotte Edwards. In the end, it took a well-disguised dipping stock delivery to dismiss her.
Rawal’s emergence on the international stage has provided India with a significant boost. Her partnerships at the top with Mandhana have relieved pressure on the middle order, where Harleen Deol has slotted in at No. 3.
“She’s been outstanding for us,” said captain HarmanpreetKaur following the match against Sri Lanka. “In the last few matches, she’s shown real maturity and taken on the responsibility. Every game, she’s playing a special knock. It’s great to see her best coming through for the team.”
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