One of the defining aspects of PoojaVastrakar’s game is her ability to bowl short of length.
PoojaVastrakar, born on September 25, 1999, in Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh, has emerged as a significant figure in Indian women’s cricket. Known for her all-round capabilities, Vastrakar’s rise from a small town to representing India on the international stage showcases her exceptional talent and dedication. As the Indian team prepares for the Women’s T20 World Cup, Vastrakar’s unique bowling style, particularly her short of length deliveries, sets her apart as a crucial player.
Vastrakar’s journey into cricket began in her hometown of Shahdol, where she initially played with boys in her neighborhood. Her early cricketing exposure came under the guidance of coachAshutoshShrivastava, who recognized her potential and provided formal training. Despite facing a significant challenge, including a knee injury that threatened to derail her career, Vastrakar’s commitment to the sport was evident from an early age.
Vastrakar’s role in the 2022 Women’s Cricket World Cup was particularly notable // Picture Courtesy — Times of India
Vastrakar’s international debut in 2018 was a pivotal moment in her career. She made her debut for India in both One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) against South Africa. Her inclusion in India’s squad for the 2018 ICC Women’s World Twenty20 in the West Indies highlighted her potential, even though an injury during the warm-up matches prevented her participation. Nevertheless, her performances prior to the tournament had already marked her as a player to watch.
A significant milestone in Vastrakar’s career came in June 2021 when she made her Test debut against England. This match was a critical moment for her, as she demonstrated her ability to contribute both with the bat and the ball. Her performances in this format further solidified her role as a valuable all-rounder for the Indian team.
Vastrakar’s role in the 2022 Women’s Cricket World Cup in New Zealand was particularly notable. Her all-round contributions, including 156 runs and 10 wickets, played a crucial part in India’s successful campaign that saw them reach the semi-finals. Her ability to perform under pressure was evident as she emerged as one of the standout performers of the tournament. Additionally, her inclusion in India’s squad for the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham further emphasized her importance to the team.
One of the defining aspects of Vastrakar’s game is her ability to bowl short of length. This approach gives her a distinctive edge in the T20 format. Bowling short of length allows Vastrakar to exploit the pitch conditions effectively, making it challenging for batters to settle. This style of bowling, characterized by its ability to generate bounce and seam movement, adds a layer of unpredictability to her game.
In T20 cricket, where batters often target bowlers who offer full deliveries, Vastrakar’s short of length approach forces them to adapt. Her ability to maintain a consistent line and length while varying her pace makes it difficult for batters to establish a rhythm. This tactic not only disrupts the batsmen’s plans but also provides valuable breakthroughs for her team at crucial moments.
One of the defining aspects of Vastrakar’s game is her ability to bowl short of length // Picture Courtesy — BJ Sports
PoojaVastrakar’s journey from her early days in Shahdol to becoming a key player for India in international cricket is remarkable. Her all-round capabilities and particularly her short of length bowling make her a valuable asset in the Women’s T20 World Cup. As she continues to develop her skills and gain experience, Vastrakar’s role in the Indian team will be pivotal in their quest for success on the global stage.
DOUBLE STRIKE FOR POOJA VASTRAKAR 🔥#CricketTwitter #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/LjTsCghhFK
— Female Cricket (@imfemalecricket) December 16, 2023
With her unique bowling style and ability to contribute significantly with both bat and ball, Vastrakar is set to play a crucial role in the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup. Her performance will be instrumental in India’s campaign, and her knack for delivering in high-pressure situations could prove to be a game-changer for the team.
