Women’s Cricket has started to grab eyeballs of the spectators across various parts of India. The inception of the WPL edition has done wonders for the sport. We took the interview of the rising cricketer Ishwari Savkar. Ishwari Savkar shared her journey and gave invaluable guidance to aspiring cricketers.
Excerpts
(1) What are the challenges you have faced in pursuing your cricket dream and how was your journey from U-19 to Senior women’s team?
I started by playing for Maharashtra’s U-19 team in 2017-2018. At the beginning, my matches in Odisha didn’t stand out much. But in the following years, I improved and became an opener. In 2022-2023, I even led Maharashtra U-19 to the semi-finals as their captain. One of my proudest moments was when I scored 151 runs against Vidarbha.
I also did well in the Quadrangular series against West Indies, Sri Lanka, India-A, and India-B, where I scored the most runs. Going from U-19 to senior cricket was smooth. Although I started on the bench, my performance helped me become an opener. I continued to do well, leading Maharashtra’s senior team in T20 and ODI runs. Learning from my senior teammates has been great, and their advice has helped us all improve. With the support of my family, my cricket journey has been very fulfilling.
(2) After a near-perfect Challengers Trophy, are you keen on playing the upcoming marquee WPL championship?
Having participated in the challengers’ trophy this season, I’m feeling quite excited about the upcoming WPL championship. Although I didn’t get selected during last year’s Women’s IPL auction, I’m eagerly anticipating the opportunity to play in the WPL. This event will provide me with greater exposure and the chance to be a part of the same dressing room as overseas players, which I’m really looking forward to.
(3) In the ever-changing landscape of cricket, how do you keep yourself fit across all the formats?
Fitness holds a significant role in the life of every athlete. I consistently prioritize my fitness regimen to maintain peak performance on the field. Regular fitness routines not only prevent injuries but also contribute to agility and speed during matches, ultimately improving my overall game.
Enhanced flexibility allows for better ball handling, catching, and fielding. My approach includes a balance of strength-based and cardio workouts to achieve comprehensive fitness goals.
(4) We have seen bowling you occasionally in matches, are you keen on becoming a batting all-rounder for the team?
Certainly, I frequently deliver effective leg-spin bowling, and I’m enthusiastic about showcasing my skills in upcoming matches. I have a track record of bowling well in domestic matches and challengers trophy matches, successfully taking wickets. Additionally, I play a role as a batting all-rounder, contributing to both aspects of the game.
(5) How did you cope up after missing out on a WPL contract?
Even though I did well this season, I wasn’t chosen for the WPL championship. It was even more disappointing because I didn’t get picked in the auction either. But I didn’t let this get me down. I used this setback to motivate myself.
I kept performing well in other domestic matches and I’m committed to staying fit, getting advice from experts, and practicing hard. I know I need to be patient and keep a positive attitude. I’m also staying active in local games. My approach shows how determined I am to turn this difficult situation into an opportunity. I want to show my skills and keep moving towards my cricket goals.
(6) Who has played a key role in your cricket journey?
During my childhood, my father and I shared playful cricket moments in our small home hall. He guided me to practice on the ground, where I was often the only girl among boys during net sessions. Though initially shy, I grew comfortable and started relishing the experience.
These interactions kindled my passion for cricket, and my dad played a pivotal role. Throughout my childhood, cricket sessions with him were frequent, contributing significantly to shaping my journey in the sport.
(7) We have witnessed that you have a technique of pacing the innings, can you tell us about that and who is your idol?
As an opening batter, I took on the role early on. During my initial domestic U-19 season, our team lacked an opener, with most players in the middle or top order. When my coach asked if I could open, I agreed without hesitation. Scoring 32 in that match boosted my confidence, affirming my ability to open in BCCI tournaments.
I relish facing the new ball. My idols, Virat Kohli and Mithali Raj inspire me with their achievements and history-making performances. Virat’s aggressive style and Mithali’s patient, technically sound approach fuels my motivation. Observing their batting techniques charges me up and provides invaluable learning opportunities.