Harmanpreet Kaur: The Heartbeat of India’s women’s Cricket World Cup Triumph
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India’s recent victory in the Women’s Cricket World Cup wasn’t just a team achievement; it was a testament to the unifying leadership of captain Harmanpreet Kaur.The recently crowned World Champions,led by Kaur,secured their win against South Africa in Navi Mumbai on November 2,marking a pivotal moment for Indian cricket and women’s sports.
(Photo: Rafiq maqbool/AP)
Beyond Decision-Making: A Captain’s True Role
Kaur views her role as captain as extending far beyond tactical decisions. “Mere liye captaincy sirf decisions lene tak limited nahi hai. yeh ek obligation hai, har player ko samajhna, unke ups and downs ke dauran unke saath khada rehna,” she explained, emphasizing the importance of understanding and supporting each player through their challenges. For Kaur, true leadership is about fostering a “safe dressing room” where open interaction and shared vulnerability are encouraged. “I
moment mil gaya. Yeh jeet un sab logon ke liye hai jo har situation mein hum par believe karte rahe,” the 36-year-old captain shared with a calm smile.
A Victory for Respect: Elevating Women’s Cricket
For Kaur, the World Cup trophy symbolizes something far greater than a sporting achievement-it represents the growing respect for women’s cricket. “The fact that we have brought respect to women’s cricket is the biggest achievement,” she asserted. She recalled a time when the support and crowds were merely a dream, contrasting it with the current reality of packed stadiums and young girls aspiring to follow in their footsteps.”Jab maine cricket start kiya tha, itna support, itna crowd dekhna sapne jaisa lagta tha.Aaj jab stadium full hota hai, bachchiyan humse milke kehti hain ‘Main bhi cricketer banna chahti hoon’ – tab lagta hai ki kuch sahi kar rahe hain. trophy se zyada khushi yeh feeling deti hai ki humne women’s cricket ko us jagah tak pahuchaya jahan log izzat aur excitement ke saath dekhte hain.”
Process Over Outcome: A Refreshing Approach
India’s path to victory wasn’t without its past disappointments, having come close to glory before only to fall short. This time, however, the team adopted a refreshingly simple approach, focusing on the process rather than solely on the result. “Over the last few years, It has been tough coming so close yet being so far from crossing the line.We do feel the pressure, but there is a lot of learning. This World Cup, our focus was not on result but only on the process. Humne chhoti chhoti cheezon par dhyaan diya – fitness, mindset, bonding. And, the most critically important was that we constantly reminded our self that we must enjoy this journet. Jab aap khushi ke saath khelte ho, pressure automatically kam ho jata hai. Shayad isi wajah se iss baar humne finish line cross kar li.”
Staying Grounded Amidst Newfound Fame
As the celebrations continue and the players receive increased attention – including potential brand deals, growing fan clubs, and sold-out stadiums – Kaur remains focused on maintaining a sense of humility. “Players have started to understand that their impact is beyond the field. But, even though we are getting fame, we are all still very grounded. Har player jaanta hai ki yeh sab performance se hi mila hai. Bas yahi attitude rakha hai – mehnat pe focus karo, baaki sab apne aap aata hai,” she concluded, emphasizing the importance of hard work and dedication.
