In the high-stakes arena of international cricket, injuries are an unpredictable part of the journey, and recovery is as much a test of mental strength as physical resilience. Recently, Indian cricketers Amanjot Kaur and Renuka Singh Thakur shared candid insights about their recovery process ahead of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, highlighting the challenges and determination behind their comebacks.
Amanjot Kaur spoke about the unpredictable nature of a cricketer’s journey, saying, “Cricket is all about ups and downs; it is unpredictable. You might be walking and then get injured.” She described the pressure of limited preparation time, revealing how the World Cup’s tight schedule meant doctors had to plan her recovery meticulously to avoid stiffness or soreness, so she could be available to represent India.
Amanjot recalled the coaches, including head coach, and the entire support staff rallying around her to ensure she was match-ready, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive physio and strength sessions provided by BCCI.
Renuka Singh shared an equally inspiring perspective. She admitted she initially struggled to accept her injury but praised the rehabilitation process this time, stating, “Usually, it takes time in the face of injury to return to playing, but this time I don’t feel like I was in rehab for six months.”
The professional care and tailored physio sessions made her recovery feel seamless, fueling her confidence about being fully fit. Renuka highlighted how the rehab and trainer team’s approach, focusing not only on physical readiness but also on timing, helped her regain her rhythm carefully and effectively.
The rehab coach offered valuable insights, explaining how both Amanjot and Renuka have unique approaches to recovery. Renuka’s injury was earlier in March, allowing a longer but well-structured rehab program, balancing intensity with recovery.
Amanjot’s injury occurred in late July, which meant only August and September were available for her rehabilitation. Owing to her history as a well-conditioned athlete, the rehab team focused more on maintaining cardio fitness and muscle strength, ensuring her recovery was swift but safe.
Both players acknowledged the vital role of support systems. Amanjot stressed the reassurance that having top-class facilities and expert staff alleviates worries about comeback, while Renuka noted the ease of settling back into matches thanks to high-quality resources and continuous monitoring.
“Very sure” about her comeback, Amanjot once again lived up to expectations, delivering a match-defining 57 in India’s opening win against Sri Lanka, and bailing the team out of trouble after a nightmare middle-order collapse. Due to illness, Amanjot sat out of India’s game against Pakistan but has returned to training ahead of India’s clash against South Africa on September 9.
On the other hand, Renuka, who sat out India’s curtain-raiser, returned to the XI for the game against Pakistan, replacing Amanjot. Though she went wicketless, she was sensational throughout, sending down 45 dot balls and finishing with figures of 0/29 (10). All eyes will be on India’s combination when they take the field against South Africa, to see if both Amanjot and Renuka make the cut.
Their stories not only reflect personal triumphs but also the Indian cricket team’s robust medical and training framework that prepares athletes to face and overcome setbacks.
As India competes in the World Cup 2025, the determined comeback of stars like Amanjot Kaur and Renuka Singh Thakur inspires the team and fans alike, proving that with the right mindset and support, injury is only a steppingstone to greater achievements.
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