“Cricket has been an integral part of my life for as long as I can remember. What started out as just a past-time street sport gradually got me into the school cricketing team when I was just eleven. Now while some saw the immense potential in me, others, including relatives and neighbours were busy convincing my parents to get me out of ‘that manly sport’ and not permit me outside too much. Nevertheless, I truly believe I’m lucky in the parental department for my mom and dad have always been my biggest cheerleaders. They didn’t pay heed to any criticism and steadily aided my climb into the Qatar Women’s National Cricket team where I represented the country internationally

Sadly though, magical times do come to an end and I witnessed mine in the form of two major accidents. It started once I shifted to India for my higher education. I did have multiple fractures previously from training but nothing came close to the intensity of the bike crash I experienced. Within minutes, my life turned upside down, with a massive fall and an intense ligament injury to the knee. The pain was immense and I had to go in for surgery. It was scary, once I realized the seriousness, but physiotherapy somehow made sure I hit the pitch again.

However, just when things were about to get normal, the universe tricked me with yet another accident- this time more powerful and painful! I remember opening my eyes to a pool of blood and a broken bone protruding out of my previously injured leg. What followed next were a series of screws and rods inserted deeply, alongside a clear indication that I can’t play anymore. That message was more shattering and I sobbed at the sheer thought of not being able to wield my bat again.

The suffering that followed too was solid with it taking me four months just to place a foot on the floor. Yet, with a conceited sense of confidence, I slowly started walking and pushing myself into a fitness regimen. Cricket may have gone far away from my life but not my willpower, for if there’s anything I’ve learnt it’s to never give up!”