In a notable development ahead of the upcoming Indian domestic season, seasoned Indian all-rounder Shikha Pandey has signed with the Baroda Cricket Association (BCA) to represent its senior women’s team. The move signals a fresh chapter in Shikha’s decorated domestic and international career and adds a significant boost to Baroda’s aspirations in the forthcoming tournaments.
Shikha, known for her sharp swing bowling, genius cricketing mind, and leadership abilities, brings years of experience to the Baroda setup. A proven match-winner across formats, she has represented India in 5 Tests, 34 ODIs, and 28 T20Is, and has earned a reputation for delivering under pressure, especially in crunch white-ball games.
She has amassed 512 runs with a highest score of 59 and scalped up 75 wickets with best bowling spell of 4/18 in WODIs and accumulated 208 runs with highest of 26*, picking up 43 wickets in the T20I format. Her ability to bowl with the new ball, control the middle overs, and contribute lower down the order makes her one of the most valuable all-rounders in Indian cricket.
A technically sound cricketer with a deep understanding of the game, Shikha’s domestic journey saw her feature for Goa Women. While she represents Delhi Capitals in the Women’s Premier League (WPL), she has also played for Brisbane Heat women in the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) and Trinbago Kolkata Knight Riders in the Women’s Caribbean Premier League (WCPL). Her shift to Baroda is seen as both a tactical and mentorship-driven move, allowing the team to not only strengthen its core but also nurture emerging talent under her guidance.
Over the years, Shikha has been an inspiration for many- balancing her career as an Indian Air Force officer alongside cricket, while also being a vocal advocate for the growth of women’s sports in India. Her professionalism and work ethic will likely set the tone for Baroda’s young unit as they look to compete strongly in the senior circuit.
Alongside Shikha, Poonam Khemmar has also joined the Baroda squad for the upcoming season, bringing her domestic premier league experience to the association. An upcoming pace-bowling prospect and a known batter, Poonam’s inclusion provides the team with additional depth and variety in their bowling attack, being previously representing Royal Challengers Bangalore in the WPL.
With the inclusion of a seasoned campaigner like Shikha Pandey and talents like Poonam, the Baroda Cricket Association seems intent on making a meaningful impact this season. For Shikha, this new beginning could very well be a launchpad for yet another impactful phase in her cricketing journey.
(Inputs sourced from Cricbuzz)
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