In the rapidly evolving landscape of Indian women’s cricket, few names have made waves as quickly and emphatically as Pratika Rawal. From her early days in Ahmedabad to shattering records on the international stage, Pratika’s journey is a testament to perseverance, self-belief, and the power of dreams.
Early Life: From Ahmedabad Streets to Cricketing Dreams
Born and raised in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Pratika Rawal’s fascination with cricket began in her childhood, often playing with older boys in her neighbourhood1. Her parents recognized her passion early, supporting her ambition even when it meant overcoming social norms and financial challenges. Their unwavering encouragement ensured Pratika could attend tournaments and receive professional coaching, laying the foundation for her future success1.
Academic Excellence and the Psychology Connection
Pratika’s journey is unique-not just for her cricketing exploits but also for her academic pursuits. A psychology student and a graduate of Modern School, Barakhamba, Pratika credits her studies for shaping her mental resilience on and off the field78. She believes understanding the human mind has helped her manage pressure, stay positive, and maintain focus during crucial moments in matches.
“When I’m on the field before a match, there is a lot of positive self-talk… that affirmation needs to be there,” Pratika shared in a BCCI interview7.
The Role of Mentors and Family
Behind every successful athlete is a support system, and for Pratika, her family and coach Deepti Dhyani have been pillars of strength38. While her mother’s simplicity and faith anchored her, Deepti Dhyani meticulously shaped Pratika’s routines, fitness, and mindset, guiding her through the highs and lows of her career3. Their collective support helped her overcome setbacks, including missing out on the WPL 2025 auction, which Pratika viewed as an opportunity for growth rather than disappointment3.
Domestic Stardom and Rapid Rise
Pratika’s domestic career flourished early. She made her Delhi Under-19 debut at just 14 and quickly became a prolific run-scorer, highlighted by a 155-ball 161 for Delhi in 20212. Her List-A performances were remarkable, amassing nearly 1,000 runs in two years and leading Delhi as captain in the Under-23 T20 Trophy2. Her consistency and leadership caught the eye of national selectors.
International Debut and Record-Breaking Feats
Pratika’s international debut came against West Indies in December 2024, where she became the 150th woman to represent India2. She immediately impressed with a composed 40 on debut, followed by a 76 and two wickets in the next match7. Her performances against Ireland and South Africa cemented her place at the top of the order.
In just eight ODIs, Pratika became the fastest woman to reach 500 runs in the format, surpassing the legendary Charlotte Edwards-a feat that drew admiration from teammates and legends alike5. Her partnerships with Smriti Mandhana have set up record-breaking wins for India, showcasing her ability to anchor innings and deliver under pressure35.
Simplicity, Clarity, and the Road Ahead
Pratika’s cricketing mantra is rooted in simplicity and clarity-both in her technique and mindset3. She credits her growth to hard work, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace challenges, such as moving from Delhi to the powerhouse Railways team to further test her abilities3.
Despite the spotlight, Pratika remains grounded, often sharing inspirational messages with her followers on Instagram and prioritizing her family and studies1. Her journey continues to inspire young girls across India, proving that with determination, the right mindset, and a strong support system, anything is possible.
The Future Is Bright
With her record-breaking start, academic prowess, and unwavering support system, Pratika Rawal stands as a beacon for the next generation of Indian women cricketers. As she continues to break barriers and set new benchmarks, the cricketing world eagerly awaits the next chapter in her remarkable story.
