Richa Ghosh’s inspiring journey from a young girl playing cricket in Siliguri to representing India at the T20 World Cup is a remarkable story of determination and talent. Her father, Manabendra Ghosh, recalls her early days on the cricket field, where her passion for the sport first manifested.
Early Beginnings in Siliguri
Richa was drawn to cricket as a child, accompanying her father to the field. Her love for the game grew alongside her skills. Manabendra initially enrolled her in a club for fitness, unaware that her dedication would lead her to become a professional cricketer.
Rise to Prominence
Opportunities were limited in Siliguri, but Richa’s perseverance paved the way. The family’s relocation to Kolkata opened new doors, facilitated by the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), which organized camps for aspiring female cricketers.
- Richa moved up the ranks quickly.
- At 13, she represented Bengal’s senior team.
Her breakthrough came when she received a call informing her of her selection for the Indian T20 World Cup team. Manabendra recalls the emotional moment: he was purchasing a new phone when he received the news, leading to tears of joy.
Achievements and Education
Since her selection, Richa has continued to excel, recently being chosen for the 2025 World Cup. Her father expresses immense pride in her accomplishments, especially witnessing India’s victory over Australia with Richa contributing to the team’s performance.
Challenges Faced
Despite the successes, raising a daughter in sports presented challenges. Manabendra emphasizes that their family never treated Richa differently due to her gender. However, he had concerns about her safety during travels for matches and camps.
Their initial anxiety was alleviated once they recognized the support system provided by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Manabendra balanced his daughter’s education with her burgeoning cricket career, ultimately prioritizing her dreams over conventional expectations.
Values and Family
Throughout her journey, Richa has remained humble and grounded. Manabendra fondly describes her as the same cheerful girl who connects with everyone. Her love for home-cooked meals, especially her mother’s fried rice, adds to her authenticity.
Reflecting on his sacrifices for Richa’s career, Manabendra realizes that the joy of seeing her achieve her dreams far outweighs any personal costs. He acknowledges that the journey they share is a rewarding experience, one that has enriched their lives profoundly.
Richa Ghosh’s journey from skipping exams to triumphing at the T20 World Cup exemplifies the power of determination, family support, and unwavering passion for the sport.
