Himachal Pradesh’s fast bowler Renuka Thakur, who played a pivotal role in the Indian team’s journey to the finals of the Asia Cup last month, has been selected for the Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the 15-member squad for the World Cup, set to take place in October, with Renuka securing her spot in the team.
Renuka, a resident of Rohru in Shimla district, earned her place in the World Cup squad after an impressive performance in the Asia Cup, where she took seven wickets in five matches.
Her standout moment came during the semi-finals against Bangladesh, where she claimed three crucial wickets, helping India secure a place in the final. This will be Renuka’s second appearance in the T20 World Cup.
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The Indian team, which is part of Group A, will face off against formidable opponents, including New Zealand, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Australia. India’s campaign will begin on October 4 with their opening match against New Zealand, followed by a much-anticipated clash with Pakistan on October 6.
Himachal’s cricketing pride
Avnish Parmar, secretary of the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA), expressed pride in Renuka’s selection, stating that it was a significant achievement for the state. “It is a matter of great pride for Himachal Pradesh that Renuka Thakur has been included in the World Cup squad. We hope that the entire team, including Renuka, will continue their excellent performance in the World Cup, just as they did in the Asia Cup,” he said.
Tanuja Kanwar listed as reserve player
However, the news was bittersweet for Himachal’s all-rounder Tanuja Kanwar, who did not make it to the main squad but has been listed as a reserve player. Tanuja will get a chance to play only if there is an injury or a significant drop in performance by one of the main players. Tanuja was also kept in reserve during the Asia Cup but had the opportunity to make her international debut against the UAE when Shreyanka Patil was injured.
Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh women’s cricket team captain Harleen Deol did not make the cut for the World Cup team, continuing her exclusion from the Asia Cup squad as well. Although Harleen was part of the Women’s World Cup squad earlier this year, she did not get a chance to play in the tournament.
