Amanjot Kaur, belonging to Mohali in Punjab, has fought obstacles that came her way – be it due to poverty or her gender – and has been picked to represent India A in an upcoming Under 23 Women’s Trophy conducted by the BCCI.
The daughter of a carpenter, Kaur was denied from practicing in a local cricket academy in Punjab on account of being a girl, but hard work along with the sacrifices of her family meant that Kaur was soon following her dreams.
Currently training under BCCI Level II cricket trainer Nagesh Gupta in a cricket academy in sector 32 in Mohali, Kaur previously represented India Green during the T20 Women’s Under 19 Challenger’s Trophy that was held in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh in 2018.
Presently a student of Sri Guru Singh College in Sector 26, Kaur has also played for her state team Punjab during the Under 19 Women’s Cricket League Tournament 2018-19. She was the Player of the Match when Punjab took on Chattisgarh in the event.
Speaking to Times of India during a training session at the Government Model Senior Secondary School in Sector 26, Kaur was ecstatic at being chosen in the India A side.
“I am all excited after getting the call. I have been asked to report by December 9. It is a great opportunity for me to get into the Indian team.” She also thanked her father for his undying support towards her and her dreams.
“I was fortunate that everyone at home supported me. My father (Bhupinder Singh) made sure I met all the requirements to achieve my aim.” Kaur told reporters.
Kaur idolizes Team India all-rounder Hardik Pandya, and thus improved her game to perfect both her batting and bowling as well. Her recent showing in the Under 23 T20 Trophy grabbed attention from the selectors, which helped her get picked in the tournament that starts from December 11.
Her coach Gupta is proud of his ward and is hopeful that Kaur can now seize her chances. “I have never seen anyone as hardworking as Amanjot. She is a very keen learner and very disciplined.” Nagesh told Times of India.
“She would reach for the net practice by 5.30 am even in winter before everyone, including me,” the coach praised Amanjot’s dedication for the sport.
