Moga welcomes its shero: Harmanpreet
Cricketer Harmanpreet Kaur Bhullar, 28, who got a heroes’ welcome in her native district on Sunday, termed her success as a turning point in women’s sports career in the state.
The middle-order batswoman grabbed headlines during the recently concluded Women’s World Cup in England with her smashing knock of 171 not out against Australia in the semi-finals, which took India into the finals.
Hundreds of fans and local politicians gave her a rousing reception on reaching Landeke village, about 7 km from the district headquarters, from where the administration took out a road show that culminated her native Duneke village, while passing through Moga city.
“I never expected this grand welcome . I am feeling proud that this time people gave love to our game,” Harmanpreet said while talking with HT.
Hoping that her success will inspire other sportswomen in the state, she said, “This is a turning point for us (women) and our sports career. I wish we will continue performing with strong will and determination.” Harmanpreet had led India to Asia Cup win in 2016 and also played well in the World Cup qualifiers earlier this year.
She is touted to be India’s next captain.
ON GOVT’S JOB OFFER
On the deputy superintendent of police (DSP)’s job offered to her by the state government, Harmanpreet said she has not decided anything yet with regard to the offer.
“I have always dreamt to work in the Punjab Police, but I will first discuss it with my sir (coach Kamaldeesh Singh Sodhi) and my family members. We have to see if this job will be beneficial for me,” she said.
Although the Mithali Raj-led Indian team lost to England in the finals, but it caught the attention of the country due to their fighting spirit. Harmanpreet, the vice-captain of the team, hit 51 runs in the final, but could not steer India to a title win, as they fell nine runs short of the target.
She touched down the Amritsar airport at noon on Sunday where his family members and friends had come to receive her.
After reaching Moga, a road show started from Landeke village with Harman perched on a jeep, flanked by father Harmander Singh Bhullar, among others. The road show passed through Moga city and ended at her home in Duneke village, where she cut a welcome cake, in the shape of a cricket stadium.
Moga MLA Harjot Kamal, Baghapurana MLA Darshan Singh Brar and DC Dilraj Singh were also present.