Suresh Raina says ‘chak de’ to rampaging India women’s team
Suresh Raina is closely following the Indian women’s team progress in the Women’s World Cup in England.
“They are on a roll and credit goes to Mithali (Raj) — how she is able to extract performance from the youngsters apart from doing well herself. The win against Pakistan was special and I am cheering for them to go all the way and win the World Cup,” Raina, who is training for his own comeback, told HT from Netherlands.
Raina picked Deepti Sharma, the 19-year old from Agra, for special mention. Deepti had smashed 78 runs in India’s win over Sri Lanka. “I am so proud of Deepti, the way she batted with maturity alongside Mithali, showing her intent. Her shot selection was impeccable,” Raina said.
“Deepti is going to rock again with the bat. Wait for more brilliant knocks from her. I am also surprised at the turn she is getting with her off-spinners in England,” added Raina.
India take on South Africa in their next match on Saturday in Bristol.“If the Indian women’s team wins the World Cup a new phase will begin. I wish all the luck to the ladies. Chak de India,” said Raina
The daughter of a retired Indian Railways employee and a government school retired principal, Deepti’s tryst with cricket started when she was eight and used to accompany her brother Sumit to his practice sessions.
“When she made her India debut in 2014, I decided to quit my job and focus on her cricket. That is when I opened a cricket academy near our house,” said Sumit, who quit his marketing job and opened a cricket academy in Avadhpuri where they live.
Deepti has six siblings including five brothers.
During the matches, friends get together at Deepti’s place to watch the game. “It would have been good to see her score a ton,” said Sumit.
At home, Deepti is fond of cooking. Sumit insists she makes the world’s best “Poha”. “When she is home, she loves to cook. She loves making “Poha” for everyone for breakfast,” said Sumit.