![Renuka Singh Thakur was decisive in breaking the back of the Bangladeshi batting outfit [Image: Getty]](https://www.womenscricinsight.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Renuka.webp "Renuka Singh Thakur was decisive in breaking the back of the Bangladeshi batting outfit [Image: Getty]")
In a stellar performance that propelled India to a decisive 10-wicket victory over Bangladesh Women in the 1st Semi-Final of the Women’s Asia Cup 2024, Renuka Singh once again showcased her prowess with the ball.
Her three-wicket haul played a pivotal role in restricting Bangladesh to a modest total of 80/8. Post-match, Renuka’s conversation with bowling coach Aavishkar Salvi shed light on the meticulous preparation and mental fortitude behind her exceptional spell.
A Coach’s Confidence and a Bowler’s Determination
Aavishkar Salvi, India Women’s bowling coach, was the first to congratulate Renuka on her outstanding performance. His words were filled with admiration and acknowledgement of her consistent brilliance throughout the series, especially in the powerplay overs where she consistently made an impact. “I expected that sort of a spell from her because of how consistently she was bowling through the series, especially in the powerplay,” Salvi remarked.
Reflecting on her performance, Renuka credited her coach for the guidance and motivation that fueled her determination. “Thank you, Sir. I think just yesterday we were having a talk where you mentioned that I should definitely take 2-3 wickets because getting wickets up front in the powerplay means we will secure a win. This is something that was running in my mind while preparing as well,” Renuka shared. Her words revealed the strategic mindset that underpinned her preparation, influenced by Salvi’s insightful advice.
Preparation Meets Execution
Renuka elaborated on how the morning practice sessions helped her acclimate to the match conditions. “Because we were practicing in the morning, the conditions felt familiar and that’s exactly what we could execute today,” she explained. This meticulous approach to training, focusing on replicating match conditions, underscored the importance of preparation in her success.
Salvi was quick to praise Renuka’s disciplined approach to her training regimen. “Renuka practices bowling not just in the powerplay overs but in the middle overs and the death overs as well with different balls. I believe this meticulous approach will take her a long distance,” Salvi noted. His confidence in her ability to adapt and excel in various phases of the game highlighted the depth of her skills and the effectiveness of her training.
Mutual Respect and Collective Effort
Renuka’s humility and gratitude towards her coach were evident as she acknowledged the role of the coaching staff in her success. “Sir, you tell me, I mean I work hard but whatever I execute is possible only because of the bowling coach and I’m grateful,” she expressed. This mutual respect between player and coach is a testament to the cohesive environment within the team.
When asked about his experience working with the women’s team, Salvi’s response was filled with admiration for the players’ enthusiasm and dedication. “It actually feels quite great and I have seen the enthusiasm in the girls and it is solid. Even the approach is very process-driven, which is refreshing to see,” Salvi shared.
He further added, “Even the planning and the execution on the ground is something that only the players can do. The coach can only plan and do so much with plans but the eventual execution is entirely on the player and that’s why the full credit should go to the player only. The preparation that is done before the match that gives us a lot of satisfaction because after that much preparation, I am confident that you will execute in the match.”
His emphasis on the players’ commitment to planning and execution underscored the collaborative effort behind their success.
Looking Ahead with Confidence
As the team prepares for the finals, Salvi’s focus remains on the process and the strengths that have brought them success thus far. “We are excited for the finals now but as a group, we will be looking inwards, to our strengths and we will be working on a process that we started off for the past so many months and we will be focussing on certain things only which has given us success so far,” he stated. His words reflect a grounded yet ambitious outlook, aiming to build on their current momentum.
Renuka Singh’s performance in the semi-final is a shining example of how preparation, guidance, and execution come together to create moments of brilliance on the cricket field. With the unbridled support of her coach and the collective effort of the team, she stands poised for even greater achievements in the future.
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