India cricketer Minnu Mani wants to inspire young girls in Kerala

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Minnu Mani, the off-spinner for Delhi Capitals, believes that her debut for the Indian cricket team will serve as an inspiration to young girls in Kerala. The Delhi Capitals recently held an off-season camp in the Delhi NCR region, overseen by Sourav Ganguly, the franchise's Director of Cricket.

The camp included nine players from both the Men's and Women's teams. Reflecting on her emotions before making her India debut against Bangladesh in July, Mani admitted that she did not expect to play all matches in the T20I series.

However, she was thrilled when she was named in the starting eleven for the first game and received her India cap from Smriti Mandhana. Initially, nervous when bowling, Mani conceded a six and a four before receiving guidance from Harmanpreet Kaur. This advice helped her regain confidence on the field.

"I didn't expect to play all matches in the T20I series. I couldn't believe it when I was named in the eleven for the first game of the series. I was so excited to get the opportunity and it was great to receive my India cap from Smriti Mandhana."

Mani, who is part of the Indian squad for the upcoming Asian Games, further added, "I was slightly nervous when I started bowling. I got hit for a six and a four, and then Harmanpreet shared some thoughts with me. I felt comfortable on the field after the two hits (laughs)."

As the first woman from Kerala to represent India in cricket, Mani understands the significance of this achievement. She hopes that her debut will inspire many girls back home who dream of playing for their country.

"My India debut will certainly inspire many girls in Kerala. I dreamt of becoming the first woman from Kerala to represent India and that dream has come true," she added further.

Mani's journey to joining the Indian team has been challenging. She trained at Kerala Cricket Association's Cricket Academy while studying until graduation. However, after completing her studies, she faced a three-hour commute each day to reach her training ground.

"I practised cricket and carried out my studies in Kerala Cricket Association's Cricket Academy from 9th grade until my graduation. But, post my graduation, I had to cover a long distance to reach my training ground from my home. I was travelling three hours a day. and my family found it difficult to provide for my travel requirements as well. However, all the hard work has paid off now," Mani added.

Her family struggled to support these travel requirements but now feels proud that all their hard work paying off. Following her India debut, Wayanad - Mani's hometown - honoured her with a special gesture by naming a junction after her. This recognition fills Mani with pride and happiness whenever she passes through it during practice sessions.

"Whenever I used to go for practice, I used to cross the main junction of our town. And now that junction is called Minnu Mani junction. I feel very proud and happy to see a junction named after me," the off-spinner signed off.