Radha Yadav Chases World Cup Dream In Fifth T20 World Cup

LONDON – India spinner Radha Yadav said winning India’s first ICC Women’s T20 World Cup title remains her ultimate goal as she prepares for her fifth appearance at the global tournament, adding that representing the country is the greatest feeling in cricket.

Returning to the national team after missing series against Australia and South Africa, the 25-year-old left-arm spinner said she was overwhelmed when she received the call-up.

“First, I thanked God because people don’t get so many opportunities. When you play for India, it is a different emotion and feeling. Playing for India is nice. It is at the top,” Radha said in a video released by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

“This is my fifth edition of the T20 World Cup. It is very important. My goal is always to win the trophy. I need the trophy a lot because I play for that only,” she said.

Radha earned her place back in the Indian squad after impressive performances in domestic cricket, India A matches and the Women’s Premier League. She said the comeback was especially satisfying because of the challenges she faced during her time away from the national team.

“It felt very special that I came back to the team and everyone showed confidence in me. My domestic season was good, I had good performances for India A, and I had a defined role in RCB. All those things helped me,” she said.

Radha said one of the biggest lessons during her time away from the national team was learning to manage pressure and self-doubt.

“I used to put a lot of pressure on myself. I felt that because I had worked so hard, bowled so many overs and spent so many hours batting and practicing, everything should work out. But until you feel that confidence on match day, there is a big difference. I worked a lot on those things mentally,” she said.

Radha credited her family and friends for helping her navigate that difficult phase.

“I had to figure out how to fight that battle in my mind. You can’t do anything alone. My friends helped me a lot and taught me how to bring calmness into my life. I went as low as I could, and it was my family and friends who brought me back up. I will never forget that,” she said.

Looking ahead to the World Cup, Radha said teamwork would be key to India’s chances.

“Even a small contribution is important because this is a team sport. Whether it is one over, a catch or saving runs in the field, everything matters. We try to help each other as much as possible. If we keep doing that, we will move closer to winning the trophy,” she added.

India has never won the Women’s T20 World Cup title and will begin its campaign against Pakistan on June 14 in Birmingham. (IANS)