India’s cricketing landscape is witnessing the emergence of a new star as Pratika Rawal shines in the ongoing Women’s World Cup. The 25-year-old right-handed opening batter has quickly become a key player for the national team, boasting an impressive batting average of nearly 50 after just 21 one-day internationals. Pratika’s rapid rise in the sport showcases not only her talent but also the unwavering support of her family, particularly her father, Pradeep Rawal.
Pradeep Rawal does not differentiate between his children based on gender. While his son has pursued a career as an engineer, it is Pratika who has taken up the mantle in cricket, a sport he has cherished throughout his life. “I didn’t have the means or guidance to make it in cricket, so when Pratika was just three years old, I started teaching her,” he recalls. This early introduction laid the groundwork for Pratika’s future in a country where women’s cricket has long struggled for recognition.
Early Signs of Greatness
Born into a cricket-loving family in Delhi, Pratika was barely ten when her father recognized her exceptional talent. During a school match against a senior college team, she scored over 50 runs, leaving spectators astounded. “That’s when I knew she was special,” Pradeep says. His commitment to nurturing her talent became evident as she progressed through the ranks and caught the attention of former India player Deepti Dhyani, who became her coach.
Dhyani saw potential in Pratika and focused on refining her skills for professional cricket. “She stood out because whenever you asked her to work on something, she would tick every box,” Dhyani explains. The emphasis on fitness became central to Pratika’s training, with Dhyani guiding her to understand that maintaining physical health was crucial for injury prevention.
Despite her dedication to cricket, Pratika also pursued academic interests, earning a degree in psychology. Her studies have given her insight into the mental aspects of the game. “In cricket, psychology plays a major role,” she explains. This understanding allows her to analyze game situations more effectively, enhancing her performance on the field.
Path to International Recognition
Pratika’s journey has not been without challenges. Despite her consistent performances in domestic cricket, she was initially overlooked in the Women’s Premier League auction last year. Nevertheless, her perseverance paid off when she received her first call-up to the Indian national team. She made her debut against the West Indies in December 2024 and quickly established herself as a formidable player.
Her breakout moment came when she scored an impressive 154 runs against Ireland in just her sixth match. Her ability to perform under pressure has been evident in the World Cup, where she contributed significantly in a crucial match against Australia, scoring 75 runs in an opening partnership of 155 with Smriti Mandhana.
While the team has faced setbacks, including defeats against Australia and South Africa, they are still favoured to reach the semi-finals. Pradeep remains confident in his daughter’s abilities and the team’s chances. “We will win this World Cup, I’m sure of it,” he asserts.
As Pratika continues to make her mark on the international stage, her journey reflects not just personal ambition but also a broader shift in the perception of women’s cricket in India. The support from her family and coaches has played a crucial role in her development, and with each match, she is proving that talent knows no gender.
