![Tanuja Kanwer revels in her India cap [Image: Getty]](https://www.womenscricinsight.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/1464231-tanuja.webp "Tanuja Kanwer revels in her India cap [Image: Getty]")
In the serene morning light of a promising new day, Tanuja Kanwer woke up to the news she had been yearning for her entire cricketing life: she was about to make her international debut for India. The nerves were palpable, but so was the excitement. This wasn’t just another match; this was a monumental milestone, a dream coming to life on the grand stage of international cricket.
As the cap presentation ceremony commenced, the air was thick with anticipation and pride. Renuka Singh Thakur, a stalwart of Indian cricket and Tanuja’s childhood friend, took centre stage.
With a beaming smile, she began, “Congratulations on your debut. This is a massive day for you, your family, and more importantly, for the whole of Himachal Pradesh.” Her words resonated with the gravity of the occasion, bringing a sense of unity and celebration to everyone present.
Renuka’s voice was filled with emotion as she continued, “Especially for our coach as well because he wanted us to play for India together. We have been playing together since our childhood and we’ve grown up together and been roommates as well. You have struggled so much that I think even I haven’t. I have seen firsthand when your name didn’t appear in the selection list, you would still turn up and you never gave up. You’d always go to the ground and work hard and I’d instead go sleep,” she added with a laugh, lightening the emotional atmosphere.
The camaraderie and shared history between the two friends were evident. “I think Tanuja always had the ‘never give up attitude’ and I’m so happy that from Himachal we have another player playing for India. All the best!” Renuka’s words were met with roars of approval from the huddle, a testament to the support and love Tanuja commanded from her teammates.
Renuka further highlighted Tanuja’s impact on domestic cricket, “Tanuja has won Himachal a lot of matches in domestic cricket and finished off one of our games with a six as well. I hope she continues to play like this for India as well and win us matches.” The confidence in Tanuja’s abilities was clear, and the hope for her future contributions to the national team was strong.
As Tanuja stood amidst her teammates, emotional and overwhelmed, the hugs and support from those around her were a comforting reminder of her journey. Reflecting on the moment she shared the news with her family, Tanuja’s voice trembled with emotion, “I called my parents to inform them about my selection and I could sense their happiness. I felt that they could not express their feelings, but through their faces, I could see how happy they were.” The pride and joy of her family were a silent, yet powerful testament to her hard work and perseverance.
Receiving the cap from Renuka was a poignant moment for Tanuja. “Getting the cap from Renuka was special as we have been playing since we were kids. Of course, it was mixed emotions and I was waiting for this moment for a really long time. Now that I have received the cap, I feel amazing. I want to thank my coach and parents as they would be feeling very proud.” Her gratitude and sense of achievement were palpable, marking the culmination of years of dedication and sacrifice.
Tanuja Kanwer’s journey to her international debut is a story of resilience, friendship, and unwavering determination. From the fields of Himachal Pradesh to the international arena, her story inspires not just aspiring cricketers but everyone who dares to dream. As she steps onto the field representing India, she carries with her the hopes and pride of her family, friends, and the entire state of Himachal Pradesh.
The future looks bright for Tanuja, and as she continues to play with the same spirit and determination, there’s no doubt she will win many more matches for India, making her nation proud.
In her debut against the UAE, she was nothing short of impressive. She bowled four overs, conceding only 14 runs at an economy of 3.50, and delivered 12 dot balls. This stellar performance not only showcased her skill and composure under pressure but also set the stage for what promises to be a remarkable international career.
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