In the world of cricket, tales of perseverance, talent, and triumph against all odds often capture the hearts and minds of fans across the globe. One such inspiring story is that of Minnu Mani, the rising star from Kerala who has defied stereotypes and overcome numerous obstacles to make her mark in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) for Delhi Capitals.
Minnu Mani’s journey in cricket began as a young batter, making her debut for Kerala’s senior team at the tender age of 15. However, as she climbed the ranks, she recognized the importance of developing a second skill. Embracing the challenge, she honed her bowling abilities during Under-19 camps, ultimately transforming herself into a formidable bowling allrounder.
The turning point in Mani’s career came during the inaugural WPL auction, where her talent and versatility caught the attention of both Delhi Capitals and Royal Challengers Bangalore. Despite facing adversity, with her base price set at a modest INR 10 lakh, Capitals secured her services for INR 30 lakh, a testament to her potential and the belief placed in her by the franchise.
Her journey in the WPL wasn’t without its hurdles. In the 2023 season, Mani had minimal opportunities to showcase her skills. However, her perseverance and dedication paid off when she received her maiden T20I call-up for India’s tour of Bangladesh, where she impressed with her bowling prowess, claiming five wickets in the series.
Mani’s achievements extend beyond the cricketing field. Hailing from the Kurichiya tribe, where societal norms often restrict girls’ participation in sports, she defied conventions with the support of her physical education teacher, Elasamma Baby. Despite facing challenges such as the lack of training facilities in her hometown and the devastation of the Kerala floods in 2018, Mani remained undeterred in her pursuit of cricketing excellence.
The road to success was paved with hard work and sacrifice for Mani. Traveling long distances and enduring multiple bus rides to reach coaching facilities, she exemplified resilience and determination. With the guidance of mentors and the support of her family, she embraced every challenge as an opportunity to grow and excel.
In the 2024 WPL season, Mani’s journey came full circle as she overcame a temporary setback to reclaim her spot in the Capitals’ lineup. With the guidance of captain Meg Lanning and coach Lisa Keightley, she fine-tuned her bowling skills and delivered a match-winning performance against Gujarat Giants, showcasing her ability to thrive under pressure.
Beyond the accolades and achievements, Mani’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, determination, and self-belief. From the paddy fields of Kerala to the glitz and glamour of the WPL, she has emerged as a symbol of hope and inspiration for aspiring cricketers everywhere.
As she continues to write her chapter in cricketing history, Minnu Mani stands as a shining example of resilience and triumph over adversity, proving that with dedication and perseverance, anything is possible.
