The recently concluded tour of England marked a significant milestone for India women’s cricket team. The Women in Blue made history by securing their maiden Twenty20 International (T20I) series victory, edging out the hosts 3-2 in a tightly fought five-match series. They followed this up by replicating their 2022 success in the One-Day Internationals (ODIs), clinching the ODI series 2-1.
This tour carries added importance with two major ICC events on the horizon: the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in 2025, set to be hosted by India and Sri Lanka in September, and the ICC T20 World Cup in 2026, which will take place in England and Wales. The series wins not only boost morale but also serve as vital preparation, offering valuable experience in varying conditions and under high-pressure situations.
The T20I triumph in particular could prove pivotal. It provided the Indian side with much-needed familiarity with English conditions, an asset that could play a crucial role in their pursuit of a maiden ICC T20 World Cup title. With growing confidence in overseas performances and a clear sense of momentum, India have taken an important step towards realising their global ambitions.
The tour was also significant in terms of individual performances. Senior players such as Harmanpreet Kaur and Shafali Verma rediscovered their form, looking far more assured after somewhat scratchy starts. Their return to rhythm will be a reassuring sign for the team management ahead of the upcoming ICC events.
One of the standout discoveries of the series was N Sree Charani. Drafted into the squad following an impressive debut season in the Women’s Premier League (WPL), she emerged as a key performer in the T20I series, showcasing composure and skill well beyond her years.
Another promising prospect unearthed during the tour was young fast bowler Kranti Goud. Although her opportunities were limited in the T20I series, she made her T20I debut in the final match of the series. While she went wicketless, her control and movement with the new ball caught the eye. So much so that the 21-year-old was preferred over senior pacer Arundhati Reddy in the first ODI, underlining the team’s belief in her potential.
With the new ball in hand, Kranti Goud showed exactly why she was picked. She made an immediate impact by dismissing Amy Jones with a peach of an inswinger that breached her defences. She then trapped the experienced opener Tammy Beaumont leg-before, providing India with two crucial early breakthroughs.
Her standout performance came in the series-deciding ODI. Once again sharing the new ball, Goud produced a sharp inswinger that cleaned up Beaumont for a second time in the series. She followed it up by removing Amy Jones during the powerplay, aided by a stunning catch from Deepti Sharma. Later, returning with the old ball in the final ten overs, Goud accounted for key lower-middle-order batters and tailenders, finishing with a decisive spell that helped India seal the match and the series.
Following her heroic, match-winning performance, the BCCI released a video showcasing Kranti Goud’s inspiring journey to the national team, highlighting her rise through adversity.
Recalling her cricketing journey, she shared that it all began by watching local boys play in her neighbourhood, often picking up the ball for them. As she spent more time around the game, her interest grew, and she gradually began to understand its nuances.
She further recalled that her first real experience of playing the game came during a local tournament in her village. One of the teams was short of a player, and the coach, noticing Kranti standing nearby, asked if she would step in. She accepted the offer and, remarkably, went on to win the Player of the Match award in her very first game.
When asked why she chose fast bowling, she explained that since no one bowled spin with tennis balls, she began observing the older boys who charged in with long run-ups. Young Kranti simply imitated them, and that’s how her journey as a pace bowler began.
As her interest in cricket grew, her father enrolled her in a local academy. However, financial constraints made it difficult for her to afford proper cricket equipment. Recognising her potential and situation, her coach generously provided her with a cricket kit, marking the true beginning of her cricketing journey.
She also spoke candidly about the financial hardships her family endured. Her father lost his job, and her brother’s work had come to a standstill. At times, they had to request food grains, assuring lenders that they would repay when they were able to. She shared that her mother even sold her jewellery so Kranti could continue playing matches. These struggles have deeply shaped her, reinforcing her belief that the dreams her family has seen must be fulfilled.
Kranti in the video also mentions, “When I used to bowl pace, then I mostly followed Hardik Pandya. I used to watch his bowling videos. And I also liked his attitude. He behaves well with everyone. So, I also used to think that if I become such a big player, I will have an attitude like him. So, I had made up my mind that I have to become like Hardik Pandya.”
Kranti also reflected on the support she received from her mother, especially during times when outsiders insisted that girls should not play cricket. Her mother’s unwavering belief in her stood firm against such societal pressures.
A career-defining moment for Kranti came during the Senior One-Day Domestic final, where she represented Madhya Pradesh. Facing Bengal, she produced a stunning performance, taking four wickets—all clean bowled—including that of India international Richa Ghosh. That spell not only showcased her skill but also highlighted her ability to thrive under pressure.
Another major breakthrough in her career came in 2025 when she was drafted by UP Warriorz in the WPL. Her maiden WPL wicket was none other than Australian legend and Delhi Capitals captain Meg Lanning. Dismissing such a high-profile batter was a moment of immense pride for the young pacer. “It was a really proud moment for me, taking the wicket of such a big player,” she said.
Kranti made her international debut in the final T20I of the series. She vividly remembers the moment she received her debut cap from the skipper. “When I wore the cap, it was something else. The feeling was different that yes, my dream was coming true.”
She also shared a touching recent incident from her village. A fan had travelled there to meet her, but she happened to be away. Instead, the visitor took photographs with her parents. Her parents were really proud, and they love it when people refer to them as Kranti’s parents.
Kranti Goud’s journey from modest beginnings to representing India is a testament to her hard work, resilience, and unyielding determination. From overcoming financial hardships and societal doubt to shining on the biggest stages of domestic and international cricket, she has carved a path built on grit and perseverance.
Her story is not just about personal triumph but also about the power of belief and support from those around her. From adversity to ascent, Kranti now stands as a symbol of hope and inspiration, proudly wearing the India jersey and paving the way for future generations of aspiring cricketers.
Loves all things female cricket