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In the realm of women's cricket, where the spotlight often shines on batters, Ekta Bisht has carved a niche for herself as a formidable spinner. Born on 8th February in 1986 at Almora, Uttarakhand, Ekta has risen through the ranks to become one of India's premier slow left-arm orthodox bowlers. Her journey, marked by determination and skill, has seen her represent India with distinction, making significant contributions to the team's successes over the years.
Hailing from the serene landscapes of Uttarakhand, Ekta's introduction to cricket was anything but ordinary. From a young age, she showcased a keen interest in the sport. By the age of six, she was already playing cricket, often with boys. This unique setup, where she was the only girl in a male-dominated team, would often draw curious onlookers. But for Ekta, it was all about the love for the game.
Her family played a pivotal role in her early cricketing journey. Ekta's father, Kundan Singh Bisht, who retired from the Indian Army in 1988, was a pillar of support. Despite financial constraints, he went to great lengths to ensure Ekta had the resources to pursue her passion. With a modest pension, Kundan Singh Bisht even opened a tea stall to supplement the family's income and support Ekta's budding cricket career. The family's financial situation improved when Ekta was selected for the national team in 2011, leading to sponsorships and better opportunities.
Ekta's early cricketing days were shaped by her mentor, Liyakat Ali, who coached the Uttaranchal Women's Cricket Association team from 2003 to 2006. Under his guidance, Ekta honed her skills and developed a deep understanding of the game. Her dedication and talent didn't go unnoticed. She was soon captaining Kumaon University in the North zone, showcasing her leadership qualities.
The journey from playing in the bylanes of Almora to representing India on the international stage was filled with challenges and hurdles. But Ekta, with her unwavering determination and the relentless support of her family, overcame them to etch her name in the annals of Indian women's cricket.
Ekta Bisht's ascent in the domestic cricket circuit was both steady and impressive. Representing Uttar Pradesh Women in various domestic competitions, Ekta's left-arm orthodox spin quickly became her team's go-to weapon. Her consistent performances for her state side caught the attention of selectors and cricket pundits alike.
In the domestic arena, Ekta showcased her ability to bowl tight spells and pick up crucial wickets at regular intervals. Her knack for breaking partnerships and her economical bowling made her an invaluable asset for her team. Over the years, she became a mainstay in the Uttar Pradesh Women's team, leading them to several victories with her match-winning performances.
Ekta's consistent performances in the domestic circuit paved the way for her international debut. She donned the Indian jersey for the first time in a Women's One Day International (WODI) against Australia Women at Chesterfield on July 2, 2011. This marked the beginning of an illustrious international career that saw her become one of the mainstays of the Indian bowling attack.
Throughout her international career, Ekta has been known for her ability to bowl under pressure. One of her most notable performances came in the Women's Cricket World Cup, where she played a pivotal role in India's journey. Her best bowling figures in WODIs, an astonishing 5/8, showcases her ability to run through opposition batting line-ups.
In T20 Internationals, Ekta made her debut against Australia Women at Billericay on June 23, 2011. With her accurate bowling and ability to extract turn from the pitch, she became a vital cog in India's T20 setup. Over the years, she has represented India in numerous T20I matches, delivering crucial performances and helping the team achieve significant victories.
Beyond her individual performances, Ekta's contribution to the Indian women's cricket team has been immense. She has been a part of several historic moments for Indian cricket, including landmark series wins and World Cup campaigns. Her experience and leadership qualities have also been crucial in guiding and mentoring young talents in the team.
In conclusion, Ekta Bisht's journey from the domestic circuits of Uttar Pradesh to representing India on the global stage is a testament to her talent, dedication, and hard work. As one of the premier spinners in the Indian women's cricket team, her contributions have been invaluable, and her legacy will inspire many budding cricketers in the years to come.
FAQs
When did Ekta Bisht make her international debut for India?
Ekta Bisht made her WODI debut for India against Australia Women on July 2, 2011.
What is Ekta Bisht's best bowling figure in WODIs?
Ekta Bisht's best bowling figure in WODIs is 5/8.
Which domestic team does Ekta Bisht represent?
Ekta Bisht represents Uttar Pradesh Women in domestic cricket.
When did Ekta Bisht make her T20I debut for India?
Ekta made her T20I debut for India against Australia Women on June 23, 2011.
Where was Ekta Bisht born?
Ekta Bisht was born in Almora, Uttar Pradesh (now in Uttarakhand), India.
