RCB all-rounder Shreyanka Patil reveals how teammate informed about her maiden India call-up

Indian women's cricket is witnessing a rising star in the form of off-spinner Shreyanka Patil, who not only made her mark with the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Women's Premier League (WPL) but also recently earned her international cap during the T20I series against England Women in December.

The 21-year-old Karnataka cricketer, who bats right-handed as well, made her T20I debut against England at home last month. Her ODI debut came against Australia in the same month.

In an exclusive interview with JioCinema, Shreyanka shared her thoughts on her unexpected national call-up, the thrill of making her debut at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, lessons from her maiden stints in WPL and Women's Caribbean Premier League 2023, and her aspirations for the upcoming WPL-2.

Shreyanka Patil On Unexpected Call-Up and Debut in Mumbai:

Shreyanka's journey to the Indian national team was not conventional. Instead of receiving a call-up notification, she was congratulated by Kanika Ahuja, and only then did she discover her inclusion in the Indian team's online group.

The realisation that she was about to represent her country brought immense joy, especially considering her prior representation of India 'A'. Making her international debut at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, the city of dreams, added a surreal touch to the moment.

"Actually, I didn't get a call-up. I got a call from Kanika (Ahuja) who congratulated me. I asked her why she was congratulating me. Then I opened my WhatsApp and saw that I was added to the Indian team's online group.

"That's when I realised that it was real, and I was going to play for the Indian team. I had represented India 'A' and for me the next goal obviously was to play for India," she said.

Shreyanka fondly recalls the electric atmosphere, with chants of "India, India" echoing as she bowled. Her parents witnessing the game made the experience even more special.

"I was hoping that my debut would happen at Bangalore, but Mumbai is the city of dreams, so my dream came true in Mumbai. I got goosebumps when I saw people chanting India, India when I was bowling.

"I got that sudden pump and that energy just rushed in. I made sure that my parents came to watch the game and it was so nice to see them cheer for us," she adds further.

Playing under Harmanpreet Kaur:

Having the opportunity to play under the leadership of Harmanpreet Kaur, Shreyanka expresses her gratitude for the freedom given to her to bowl according to her instincts.

"This is the first time I am playing under Harry di and she has given me the freedom to bowl how I want to. She has seen me in the WPL and I am really blessed that she gave me the opportunity. The support staff too has been amazing. Amol (Muzumdar) Sir has really supported me," she acknowledged.

WPL Experience and Learning from Legends:

Reflecting on her participation in the Women's Premier League, Shreyanka emphasises that the league is not just about cricket but also about enjoying camaraderie with teammates and making new friends.

The chance to share the field with cricketing legends such as Ellyse Perry, Smriti Mandhana, and Sophie Devine has been an invaluable learning experience for her. Excited about the upcoming WPL season, she looks forward to further honing her skills.

"I have enjoyed the WPL thoroughly, not just batting and bowling but also having fun with my teammates and making new friends. The WPL provides a great opportunity to learn from legends like Ellyse Perry, Smriti Mandhana and Sophie Devine. I am looking forward to this year's WPL too," she said.

Meeting Virat Kohli - A Sweet Memory:

Shreyanka shares a memorable encounter with Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli during a team meeting. The unexpected appearance of Kohli, especially after a series of defeats, left her awestruck. Despite being prompted to ask questions, Shreyanka found herself speechless, choosing instead to absorb the motivation Kohli provided to the team.

"That was a very sweet moment for me. I was sitting and thought, 'Oh it's just another team meeting'. Then I saw someone walk past me in a black shirt. When he appeared in front, I was like 'This is Virat Kohli'. We had lost five games and were disappointed, and then suddenly he walks through. And then I was like, 'What is happening.'"

"People were prompting me to ask questions. And nothing came out of my mouth. I was like, 'Let me just see him and observe him'. That was my first reaction when I saw him. The way he motivated the team was amazing," she reminisced.

Expectations from WPL-2 and CPL Experience:

Having tasted the intensity of the first Women's Premier League, Shreyanka recognizes the need to upgrade her skills and develop mental toughness for the upcoming season.

Her Caribbean Premier League (CPL) experience with the Guyana Amazon Warriors Women further enriched her cricketing journey, turning her from a youngster into an overseas player. Shreyanka cherishes every moment, from claiming Hayley Matthews' wicket to reaching the finals.

"To go and play there after the experience of the WPL was quite interesting for me but then I enjoyed it thoroughly because I was in the thinktank group as well. I enjoyed every bit of it from getting Hayley Matthews' wicket to being runners up in the tournament," she signed off.

Shreyanka Patil's journey from the WPL to an international debut exemplifies the growing talent pool in women's cricket in India. As she gears up for WPL-2, her determination to strengthen herself mentally and enhance her skills promises an exciting future.