Despite missing out on gold at the Commonwealth Games, Indian left-arm spinner Rajeshwari Gayakwad remains bullish on the 'Women in Blue' clinching victory at the forthcoming Asian Games in Hangzhou, China.
In 2022, during their maiden appearance in the women's cricket event of the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, the Indian team was just a step away from glory but once again faltered against a formidable Australian side in the final. Notably, this marked India's third stumble in major championship finals in recent times.
Nevertheless, their stellar performances have secured a straight shot to the Asian Games quarterfinals, thanks to their commendable ICC T20I rankings.
"Definitely, we will get the gold medal in the Asian Games." She further added, "We've faced major opponents before, and while the past is there, our faith in our team's capability to clinch that gold medal remains unshaken," an assured Gayakwad told PTI in a conversation.
Gayakwad, absent from India's recent series against Bangladesh, clarified her absence from the side as well, "I was in rehabilitation and on rest during the Bangladesh tour; it was not the case of me being dropped."
The seasoned spinner is presently engaged in an off-season camp with her Women’s Premier League side UP Warriorz in Bengaluru. Highlighting the team's preparations, she mentioned, "The camp is centred around holistic improvement. While no specific areas needed rigorous work, we've emphasized refining our overall game. Especially for the batters, it's been about honing their stroke-making."
Meanwhile, Gayakwad sees the Women’s Premier League as a pivotal platform for women's cricket in India. "The WPL prods us to elevate our game," she noted.
"Earlier, transitioning directly from the domestic circuit to the Indian team was the sole pathway. However, with WPL, we'll witness more matches, catalyzing the growth of women's cricket in India." Speaking about interactions with international teammates, she added.
Boasting 99 wickets, Gayakwad stands tall as India’s fourth-highest wicket-taker in ODIs. But she remains grounded, emphasising, "Frankly speaking, I do not think about it. My focus remains on taking it one match at a time."
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