Bharti Fulmali’s latest IndiaT20 call up has been a moment of quiet reward after years of persistence, and the batter has shared an honest account of the emotions behind her return to the national setup. The Vidarbha player, currently part of Gujarat Giants squad for Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026, Fulmali spoke about her journey in a video shared on the franchise’s official social media platforms, offering fans a glimpse into how special the moment has been for her.
Fulmali revealed that she did not initially know about her selection and only learned of it through her teammates. The news came unexpectedly while the squad was travelling together. “I didn’t even know. But we sat down in the bus, and everyone started screaming, ‘Congratulations, Bharti, you’ve been selected’,” she said. The moment, she admitted, took time to sink in, with the excitement of those around her making the achievement feel real.
Once the initial shock settled, Fulmali said her first instinct was to call her family, who had stood by her throughout her cricketing journey. “I just had to call the family first. They are my strongest pillars; they have played an important role in my cricket journey. So, I had to inform them first. They were very excited and were very happy,” she shared. Fulmali has often spoken about how family support helped her stay focused during difficult phases, particularly when she was away from the national spotlight.
This call up carries added meaning given the long wait Fulmali endured after being dropped from the Indian team earlier in her career. For her, the return is the result of sustained effort rather than a single good season. “Hard work obviously. I have waited almost seven years for this. I only had one aim, one goal. I was dropped from the India team, and I want to make a comeback. But still it’s a long way, we’ll see,” she said, reflecting a mix of satisfaction and realism. Her words underline an understanding that selection is only one step, and that consistency will determine what comes next.
Fulmali’s recall follows a strong run-in domestic cricket and impressive performances in the WPL, where she has been an important part of Gujarat Giants setup. Used primarily as a finisher, she has built a reputation for composure under pressure and the ability to close out innings. Asked about her mindset heading into the India camp, Fulmali was clear about the role she sees for herself. “The way I’ve been playing in the WPL, I’ve also had a good domestic season. My role is of a finisher, so I’ll try to finish and win the games for my team,” she said.
India’s selectors have consistently spoken about rewarding domestic form and strengthening the squad depth ahead of a busy international calendar. Fulmali’s inclusion reflects that approach, offering the team a batter with experience, maturity and clarity in her role. Her journey back into the squad also stands as an example of resilience, particularly in a competitive system where opportunities are limited and patience is often tested.
As she continues her stint with Gujarat Giants and prepares for national duties, Fulmali remains focused on the present. The call up, while emotional, is not an end point for her. Instead, it represents another opportunity to contribute, prove herself and make the most of a chance she waited nearly seven years to earn.
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