Renuka Singh Thakur’s Journey: How ‘Amol Sir’ Inspired Her During Injury Ahead of the World Cup

Renuka Singh Thakur is on the mend at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence after suffering a stress fracture in her back, a setback that has left her feeling low during her recovery. This marks the second time the talented Indian swing bowler has faced a back injury, raising concerns about her return to the game. However, with the support of India women’s team head coach Amol Muzumdar, Thakur has regained her spirits and played a pivotal role in India’s triumph at the 2025 World Cup. Reflecting on her journey, she shared her experiences and aspirations as she prepares for the upcoming Women’s Premier League season.

Overcoming Adversity

Renuka Singh Thakur’s journey back to cricket has not been easy. After suffering a stress fracture in her back, she faced a challenging nine-month hiatus from international play. During this time, she often felt disheartened, questioning when she would be able to return to the field. It was during this difficult period that Amol Muzumdar, the head coach of the India women’s team, provided much-needed encouragement. His advice to focus on the upcoming World Cup rather than dwell on her injury helped Thakur regain her confidence.

Reflecting on her recovery, Thakur stated, “It was a tough phase. I was in touch with Amol sir. We were preparing for the ODI World Cup. During a long chat, Amol sir told me, ‘Don’t take tension. What’s happened has happened. Nothing can be done about it, don’t worry, there is a World Cup coming.'” This mindset proved beneficial, as Thakur played a crucial role in India’s World Cup victory, delivering a tight bowling performance in the final against South Africa, conceding only 28 runs in eight overs.

Celebrating Success

The joy of winning the World Cup was a momentous occasion for Thakur and her family. After India’s historic victory, she fondly recalled celebrating with her mother, Sunita Thakur, back in their village of Parsa in Bashar, Shimla. “There was a party for 10 days at my home! I’ve a big family, so all the cousins and all other relatives gather at home when I’m playing for India,” she shared. The excitement was palpable, as her mother was so engrossed in the celebrations that she didn’t call Renuka immediately after the win.

Now, as a World Champion, Thakur has noticed a significant change in her life. “We’ve been very busy for the past month, not even getting time for ourselves! Earlier, people wouldn’t recognize us beyond a few big names. However, now everyone is recognizing us. This is a big change and that’s why a trophy win was needed,” she remarked. This newfound recognition has motivated her further as she prepares for the upcoming Women’s Premier League season.

Looking Ahead

As she gears up for the Women’s Premier League, Renuka Singh Thakur is eager to contribute to her new team, Gujarat Giants. Having played three seasons with Royal Challengers Bangalore, she is excited about the opportunity to win the WPL trophy with her new squad. “I would like to win the WPL trophy for GG because I’ve developed a ‘taste’ for winning trophies now!” she expressed. Thakur has been following the Giants’ performances and is optimistic about their potential to secure their first title.

Despite her enthusiasm for the WPL, Thakur remains cautious about planning for the future. When asked about India’s upcoming multi-format tour of Australia, she stated, “I haven’t thought that far ahead yet, as there’s no point in overthinking the distant future right now.” This perspective reflects her growth and resilience, shaped by her experiences with injuries and the pressures of competitive cricket.

Reflections on Team Dynamics

In the wake of India’s World Cup success, the competitive landscape of women’s cricket continues to evolve. Ashleigh Gardner, captain of the Gujarat Giants and an off-spinning all-rounder from Australia, acknowledged the sting of defeat to India in the semifinals. Despite the setback, she remains confident in her team’s abilities. “It was obviously really frustrating. I’ve said in the media since that World Cup, I’m not denying that I still think we’re the best team in the world,” Gardner stated. Her belief in Australia’s strength highlights the ongoing rivalry and competitive spirit in women’s cricket.

Additionally, the Gujarat Giants have made a strategic move by appointing former England keeper-batter Sarah Taylor as their new fielding coach for the upcoming WPL season. This decision reflects the team’s commitment to enhancing their performance and building a strong foundation for future success. As the new season approaches, both Thakur and the Giants are poised to make their mark in the league, fueled by their recent achievements and aspirations for victory.

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