Uma Chetry Makes Historic ODI Debut for India

A Landmark Moment for Assam Cricket

India’s final league encounter against Bangladesh in the Women’s ODI World Cup on Sunday marked a monumental day for Assam cricket. The spotlight fell on Uma Chetry, who made her One-Day International debut for India, becoming only the second woman cricketer from Assam to represent the nation in this format. She follows in the footsteps of Ritu Dhrub, who donned the Indian jersey in both ODIs and T20Is during the 2013–14 season.

From T20s to ODIs: Uma’s Journey of Persistence

Before her ODI debut, Uma Chetry had already showcased her talent in seven T20 Internationals for India. Her most recent international outing came in December 2024 against the West Indies at Navi Mumbai’s DY Patil Stadium.
At just 23 years old, the wicketkeeper-batter brings a wealth of experience from the shorter format, coupled with her impressive domestic record. Her consistency and dedication paved the way for this long-awaited opportunity on the global stage.

India’s Strategic Changes and Weather Delays

Heading into the match, India made three strategic changes to their lineup. Uma Chetry, Radha Yadav, and Amanjot Kaur were brought in to replace Richa Ghosh, Kranti Gaud, and Sneh Rana, who were rested ahead of the crucial knockout rounds.
Rain caused a 35-minute delay at the toss, slightly disrupting proceedings, but India remained focused on ending their league campaign on a high note before the semifinal clash against defending champions Australia.

A Dual Celebration for Assam: Uma Chetry and Riyan Parag

Chetry’s debut adds another proud chapter to Assam’s cricketing story. Earlier, Riyan Parag became the first male cricketer from Assam to play an ODI for India in August 2024 against Sri Lanka. Together, their achievements symbolize a new dawn for cricket in the northeastern state, inspiring a generation of young aspirants who now see a pathway from regional tournaments to the international arena.

Team Lineups: India vs Bangladesh

India Women Playing XI

Pratika Rawal, Smriti Mandhana, Harleen Deol, Jemimah Rodrigues, Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Deepti Sharma, Uma Chetry (w), Amanjot Kaur, Radha Yadav, Shree Charani, Renuka Singh Thakur

Bangladesh Women Playing XI

Sumaiya Akter, Rubya Haider Jhelik, Sharmin Akhter, Sobhana Mostary, Nigar Sultana (w/c), Shorna Akter, Ritu Moni, Rabeya Khan, Nahida Akter, Nishita Akter Nishi, Marufa Akter

Inspiring the Next Generation

As Uma Chetry embarks on her ODI journey, fans across Assam and the rest of India are filled with pride and anticipation. Her rise reflects not only individual brilliance but also the growing presence of cricket in India’s Northeast, a region rapidly emerging as a breeding ground for sporting excellence. With her gloves on and bat in hand, Uma Chetry represents a new chapter in Indian women’s cricket—one defined by determination, talent, and regional pride.

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Sorit Chaudhary

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