The opening Women’s T20I match between Bangladesh and India witnessed the remarkable international debuts of Minnu Mani and Bareddy Anusha. These talented cricketers showcased their skills, eager to make a mark at the highest level. Mani, a right-arm off-spinner, etched her name in history as the first female cricketer from Kerala to represent India. Meanwhile, Anusha, a left-arm spinner from Andhra Pradesh, joined her in making a memorable debut. Let’s delve into their individual journeys and noteworthy performances.
In Kerala, Minnu Mani, born on March 24, 1999, has emerged as a true trailblazer for women’s cricket in the state. This versatile all-rounder previously showcased her skills while representing the Delhi Capitals in the inaugural Women’s Premier League (WPL) earlier this year. During the WPL auction, Mani was acquired by the Delhi Capitals for an impressive price of Rs. 30 Lakhs.
Anusha Bareddy and Minnu Mani are set to make their international debut for India today. 🎉
Congratulations ❤️❤️#CricketTwitter #BANvIND 📸BCCI pic.twitter.com/sj9Y6s2bxq
— Female Cricket (@imfemalecricket) July 9, 2023
Though Mani played three matches in the tournament, she, unfortunately, couldn’t secure any wickets and struggled with her batting performance. However, her selection for the national team attests to her immense potential and the selectors’ faith in her abilities. Representing her state team, Kerala Women, in the domestic circuit, Mani has consistently displayed her passion and commitment to the game.
Bareddy Anusha, a left-arm spinner hailing from Anantapur in Andhra Pradesh, also received her maiden India cap during the match against Bangladesh. At just 20 years old, Anusha has already showcased her talent on the domestic stage, representing the Andhra Women’s team. Earlier this year, she played a crucial role in India’s triumphant campaign in the ACC Women’s Emerging Teams Cup, where she featured in a single match against Hong Kong.
Despite going unsold at the WPL 2023 auction, Anusha’s inclusion in the national team speaks volumes about her skill set and potential. With a base price of Rs. 10 lahks, Anusha’s snub at the auction only fueled her determination to prove her mettle at the international level. Her selection for the Indian team is a testament to her hard work, perseverance, and promise as a spinner.
Both Mani and Anusha showcased their immense potential and talent during their international debuts, impacting the match against Bangladesh. Mani made an immediate impact by claiming the crucial wicket of Bangladesh opener Shamima Sultana, finishing with impressive figures of 3/21 in her three overs.
On the other hand, Anusha’s left-arm spin tightened the screws on the opposition, restricting the run flow and ending her spell with economical figures of 0/24 in her allotted four overs. Despite not securing any wickets, Anusha’s discipline and control over her bowling impressed the onlookers and further validated her selection.
Minnu Mani and Bareddy Anusha have embarked on their international cricketing journeys with immense promise and talent. Mani, the first female cricketer from Kerala to represent India, brings her all-round skills to the team, bolstering its capabilities. Anusha, hailing from Andhra Pradesh, has already showcased her potential on the domestic stage and is eager to contribute her left-arm spin to the national team’s success.
Sports have always been a huge part of my life, and having played cricket professionally for my state team, I gained a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed in the world of sports. With an eye for detail and passion for sports, I’m hoping to make a lasting impact in the sports industry.