Pratika Rawal, born on September 1, 2000, in Delhi, India, has rapidly ascended the ranks of women’s cricket to become a promising all-rounder for the national team. Her journey from a sports-enthusiastic student to an international cricketer is a testament to her dedication and multifaceted talent.
Early Life and Education
Raised in Prem Nagar, Haryana, Pratika’s inclination towards sports was evident from a young age. She attended Modern School at Barakhamba Road and later graduated with a degree in psychology from Jesus & Mary College in New Delhi. Her academic prowess was highlighted by an impressive 92.5% in her CBSE 12th board examinations. Beyond academics, Pratika showcased her athletic versatility by excelling in basketball, securing a gold medal at the 64th School National Games in Delhi in January 2019.
Introduction to Cricket
Cricket runs in Pratika’s family; her father, Pradeep Rawal, is a BCCI-certified Level-II umpire with the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA). Inspired by her father’s involvement in the sport, Pratika began her cricketing journey at the age of 10. She initially trained under coach Sharvan Kumar at the Rohtak Road Gymkhana Cricket Academy and later honed her skills with former cricketer Dipti Dhyani and Delhi women’s team coach Dishant Yagnik.
Domestic Career
Pratika’s domestic career commenced with the Delhi women’s cricket team during the 2021/22 season. She quickly made a mark with a remarkable 155-ball 161, bringing her into the limelight. Over the 2022-23 season, she amassed 552 runs in 14 games, showcasing her consistency and prowess as a top-order batter. Her performances earned her a spot with the Railways team in the 2024/25 season, further solidifying her reputation in domestic circuits.
International Debut and Performance
Pratika’s consistent domestic performances led to her international debut for India on December 22, 2024, against the West Indies. She was honored as the 150th player to represent the Indian women’s cricket team. In her initial six One Day Internationals (ODIs), she scored 444 runs at an impressive average of 74.00, including a stellar 154-run innings against Ireland in Rajkot. This innings featured a 233-run partnership with captain Smriti Mandhana, propelling India to a record total of 435 for five.
Playing Style and Strengths
As a right-handed opening batter and right-arm off-break bowler, Pratika epitomizes the qualities of a true all-rounder. Her batting is characterized by technical proficiency and the ability to anchor innings, while her off-spin bowling adds depth to her role in the team. Her calm demeanor and versatility have been lauded by teammates and coaches alike.
Off the Field
Pratika’s academic background in psychology has been instrumental in her approach to the game, aiding her mental resilience and strategic thinking on the field. Her multifaceted interests and achievements reflect a well-rounded personality, balancing sports and education with equal zeal.