Shafali Verma, the youngest cricketer to play for India both in male and female, is grateful that the Indian women cricketers are able to play Women’s T20 Challenge amid the COVID-19.
Shafali Verma starred in the T20 Women’s World Cup 2020 for India as the team first time reached the grand finale of the tournament. She is one of the findings from women’s challengers. The youngster caught the eyes of national selectors because of her power of hitting big sixes.
Since March, the Indian women cricketers have not got a competitive match because of coronavirus. Therefore, Shafali is eager to feature in the four women’s T20 games organized during the playoffs of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in the UAE.
“The BCCI, like every other organisation is dealing with issues because of COVID and it is understandable. The very fact that the challenger would be happening is great news and I can’t wait to get back on the ground and meet the other players! Yes there will be restrictions but that’s only for our safety,” the 16-year-old said.
I am ready to go when action resumes: Shafali Verma
The lockdown had hashed all the cricketing scheduled but it hadn’t stop Shafali Verma to improve his game. She worked on his fitness and strengths to get back ready whenever given the opportunity.
“The lockdown was an unforeseen situation but I looked to use it to the best of my ability and worked hard on my fitness so that I am ready to go when action resumes. The HCA has been a great strength for us in these times as we were given not just fitness charts, but even our nutritional facts were kept a check on so that as sportspersons we don’t lag behind. Ashwani sir ensures that everyone follows the routine,” she said.
Apart from physical growth, Shafali Verma also kept herself mentally strong. She said that with the help of the Haryana Cricket Association and her coach Ashwani, she kept herself motivated during the extended break.
“Also, the sessions with sports psychologist helped as negativity can creep in during such times when you are stuck indoors, but the HCA ensured that we were kept motivated and knew what awaits us when normalcy returns. Ashwani sir has also always been just a call away,” she said.
Indian women’s cricket team was, earlier, set to tour England to play ODI series but because of the coronavirus, the series was called off. Also, the Women’s World Cup scheduled in February next year has been postponed to 2022.