![The duo of Tejal Hasabnis and Saima Thakor had a memorable debut for India [Image: Getty]](https://www.womenscricinsight.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/389706.webp "The duo of Tejal Hasabnis and Saima Thakor had a memorable debut for India [Image: Getty]")
In a thrilling first ODI against New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, Tejal Hasabnis and Saima Thakor debuted for India, each leaving her mark on a memorable day of cricket. With both players contributing significantly to India’s 59-run win, the duo’s post-match reflections provided a heartwarming glimpse into the pride and camaraderie shared between the newcomers.
After the match, the two friends chatted about their first outing in Indian colours, reflecting on the moments that made the day unforgettable. Saima, visibly moved by her debut, summed it up: “Honestly, I couldn’t have asked for a better person to share my debut day with,” she said, beaming at Tejal. “It was an amazing day,” both echoed.
Tejal’s ODI journey began with a special honour: receiving her debut cap from none other than her state captain, Smriti Mandhana. When asked by Saima about the moment, Tejal recounted an anecdote that Smriti shared with the group that lightened the mood before the big day. “Actually, it was during our knockouts, and I had this awkward fall down the stairs. Despite that, I scored a match-winning knock,” she shared with a laugh. “For the next match, my teammates joked that I should fall again as it brought us luck! Rituals are rituals, after all.”
On the field, Tejal anchored India’s innings during a crucial period, displaying calmness well beyond her years. She joined Jemimah Rodrigues at the crease just as India found itself on shaky ground, and the two managed to steady the innings. Saima was curious about how Tejal felt in those pressure moments, especially since it didn’t seem like her first game. Tejal explained how her partnership with Jemimah played a vital role in setting her at ease. “The best part was that Jemi was already there,” she said.
“We had a clear conversation that we were here to build a partnership. I focused on rotating the strike and biding my time, especially since we’d lost a few wickets. The game plan was simple, and I’m glad it got executed accordingly.”
For Saima, the day was equally significant, and her moment of glory came early. Stepping up in the middle overs, she bowled a spell that shifted the momentum, securing two crucial wickets. Her caught-and-bowled of Suzie Bates, the veteran New Zealand opener, was particularly special. Reflecting on the approach that guided her success, Saima explained, “The instruction was quite simple. Just bowl stump to stump and keep it basic. It worked for me.” And that it did—her debut figures were a testimony to her disciplined approach.
Tejal couldn’t resist asking about Saima’s spirited celebration after that crucial first wicket. Saima, visibly touched, revealed the heartfelt motivation behind it. “It was actually for my nephew and niece. My first wicket was dedicated to them—they have my heart,” she said. “It was also the first time my family came to see me in the stadium, so it was truly special.”
Tejal and Saima’s debut performances epitomized teamwork, focus, and an unwavering belief in themselves and each other. As India’s cricketing future continues to shine bright, this debut marks only the beginning of what promises to be a remarkable journey for these two talented young players.
Click Here to get the latest news related to Women’s Cricket. You can also check about Match predictions here. Like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more updates.
