Minnu Mani, the first woman international cricketer from Kerala, believes that her India debut has ignited inspiration among girls in her state and anticipates that many more will be encouraged to follow in her footsteps.
The pioneering off-spinner shared her insights with aspiring cricketers during an off-season camp organized by the Delhi Capitals men’s and women’s teams in the Delhi NCR region. The camp, overseen by the franchise’s Director of Cricket, Sourav Ganguly, featured nine players from each of the Delhi Capitals’ men’s and women’s squads.
Reflecting on her journey, DC off-spinner Minnu Mani shared her emotions before her India debut against Bangladesh in July. “I didn’t anticipate playing in all matches of the T20I series. The feeling was surreal when I found myself in the playing eleven for the first match of the series. The opportunity was exhilarating, and receiving my India cap from Smriti Mandhana was a memorable moment,” she recalled.
As part of the Indian squad for the upcoming Asian Games, Mani added, “I experienced a bit of nervousness when I started bowling. After conceding a six and a four, Harmanpreet shared some insights with me. Those words helped me regain my confidence on the field after those initial hits (laughs).”
Breaking new ground, Minnu Mani became the first woman from Kerala to represent India in cricket. Reflecting on this significant achievement, she shared, “My India debut will undoubtedly serve as an inspiration to many girls in Kerala. I nurtured the dream of becoming the first woman from Kerala to don the Indian jersey, and now that dream has materialized.”
However, Mani’s journey to the Indian team was not without challenges. Detailing her path, she explained, “I balanced cricket training and academics at the Kerala Cricket Association’s Cricket Academy from the 9th grade through my graduation. Yet, after completing my studies, I faced a long commute to reach the training ground from my home, enduring a three-hour journey each day. My family encountered difficulties in meeting my travel needs. Nevertheless, all the hard work has culminated in this rewarding moment.”
Following her India debut, Mani was bestowed a special tribute in her hometown of Wayanad. She expressed her pride at this gesture, stating, “During my practice sessions, I often crossed the main junction in our town. Today, that very junction bears the name ‘Minnu Mani Junction.’ This recognition fills me with immense pride and happiness.”
Minnu Mani’s journey and accomplishments symbolize the potential for women’s cricket to empower and inspire girls, not just in Kerala, but across the nation.
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