The Delhi Capitals Men’s and Women’s teams recently carried out an off-season camp in the Delhi NCR region. The camp, which was conducted under the watchful eyes of the franchise’s Director of Cricket Sourav Ganguly, consisted of nine players from each of the Delhi Capitals Men’s and Women’s teams.
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).”
The off-spinner is the first woman from Kerala to play cricket for India. When asked about the special feat, Mani said, “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.”
However, the road to the Indian team hasn’t been easy. Speaking about her journey, Mani expressed, “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.”
“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.
