In the vibrant realm of cricket, few stories shine as brightly as that of Pratika Rawal. This young cricketer has taken the Women’s One Day International (WODI) stage by storm, making headlines and setting records that will be talked about for generations. In just her debut series, Rawal became the fastest player to score 500 runs in WODIs, achieving this milestone in a mere eight innings. This remarkable feat has not only put her on the map but also established her as a trailblazer for future generations of cricketers. Let’s delve into her incredible journey and the milestones that have marked her rise.
Pratika’s cricket journey began in Delhi, where she honed her skills and showcased her talent. It wasn’t until she switched to playing for the Railways in 2024 that she truly began to shine. During the 2023-24 Senior Women’s One Day Trophy, Rawal scored an impressive 411 runs across eight matches, boasting an average of 68.50 and a strike rate of 91.94. This included two stellar centuries, with a remarkable top score of 141. Furthermore, her leadership skills came to the forefront when she captained Delhi to the finals of the Under-23 T20 Trophy, finishing as the second-highest run-scorer with 182 runs from nine matches.
Her hard work and dedication caught the eye of selectors, leading to her first national team call-up in December 2024 for the ODI series against the West Indies. In her second ODI, Rawal didn’t just meet expectations; she soared above them, scoring a solid 76 runs and taking two wickets. This performance solidified her reputation as a dual threat—a player who can change the game with both bat and ball. Following this, she scored an extraordinary 154 runs off 129 balls against Ireland, marking her first century and setting a record for the highest individual score by an Indian on home soil.
Now, with the crown of the fastest 500 runs in Women’s ODIs resting on her shoulders, Pratika has surpassed the likes of cricketing legends. The previous record was held by Charlotte Edwards, who achieved her 500 runs in nine innings. In just eight innings, Pratika has not only outpaced Edwards but also outdone renowned names like Kathryn Bryce, Nicole Bolton, Belinda Clark, and even India’s veteran Mithali Raj.
Her influence extends beyond her individual achievements. In one memorable match against Ireland, Rawal partnered with captain Smriti Mandhana to create the third-highest opening partnership for India in women’s ODI history, standing tall with a remarkable 233-run stand. Most recently, in the ongoing tri-series, she played a pivotal role in a game against South Africa, not only completing her record of 500 runs but also scoring her fifth consecutive fifty-plus score—a milestone that aligns her with cricketing titans like Mithali Raj and Ellyse Perry.
Pratika’s prowess on the field isn’t merely about numbers. She embodies a blend of technical skill and aggressive stroke play that makes watching her a thrilling experience. As she seamlessly navigates between anchoring innings and scoring at a brisk pace, Rawal is setting the standard for what it means to be a modern cricketer. Her contributions reflect a bright future ahead, both for her and for women’s cricket, inspiring a new generation to dream big.
As we celebrate her achievements, it’s clear that Pratika Rawal isn’t just rewriting history; she’s crafting a remarkable legacy that hints at even greater accomplishments to come. In the years ahead, we’ll undoubtedly continue to hear her name echo, as she leads the charge for women’s cricket to new heights.
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