NEW DELHI: It's a heartwarming story of triumph against the odds.
Sajana Sajeevan
's journey from the humble surroundings of Mananthavady in
Wayanad
, Kerala, to making a debut for Mumbai Indians in the
Women's Premier League
(
WPL
) is truly inspiring.
The fact that her parents, Sajeevan and Sharada, had their share of daily worries, including financial concerns, adds an extra layer of resilience to the narrative.
The emotional struggle that Sajeevan and Sharada faced as they learned about their daughter's debut reflects the sacrifices and hopes that parents invest in their children's dreams.
The scene of them holding back tears and the entire neighborhood celebrating Sajana's success paints a picture of a supportive community rallying behind a local talent.
Sajana's final-ball six that secured a thrilling victory for Mumbai Indians is a fairy-tale ending to her debut. It's the kind of cricketing moment that turns players into heroes and captures the imaginations of fans.
The fact that this cricketing fairy tale originated from a village in Wayanad, Kerala, makes it even more special, showcasing that talent can emerge from the most unexpected places.
The story underscores the transformative power of sports and how it can bring joy and pride to communities. Sajana's journey from the modest beginnings of Mananthavady to the grand stage of the WPL serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring athletes, especially those facing challenges in pursuing their dreams.
In fact, their modest financial environs prevented them from supporting Sajana's dream to pursue cricket.
"Our income was not really that big enough to fund her sporting activities and travelling for tournaments," Sajeevan tells PTI.
"But she was always passionate about cricket and used to play the game at the paddy field near our home with coconut petiole with her friends and relatives.
"One day she met (former Indian cricketer) Gautam Gambhir at the Krishnagiri stadium here, and got an autographed bat. Seeing that we realised her passion for the sport.
"Elsamma Baby, the Physical Education teacher in the local government school too, told us to encourage her sporting ambitions," he says.
Sajana's story takes an interesting turn with her selection to play for her district in the Under-19 tournaments. It highlights that her cricketing journey wasn't just a stroke of luck but was backed by her talent and hard work.
The fact that she pursued a degree in political science alongside her cricketing aspirations adds another layer to her character, showcasing a balance between academics and sports.
"I did not have funds to travel. When I was selected to play for my district, I started earning money, 150 Rs per day as daily allowance. That was big money for me.
"Then, it went to 150, 300 and 900. I wanted to feel happy for my parents," said Sajana in a video uploaded on the MI website.
But that was just the first point of her heady trip. She soon was drafted into the state Under-19 side, and was later appointed as the captain too.
In the subsequent decade, Sajana's profile as a handy all-rounder – a hard-hitting batter and off-spinner – got some more value additions as she also got selected for India A.
The first sign of a wider recognition came when she entered the auction pool during the first WPL auction early last year.
"Sajana was so nervous that day and she did not even watch it (auction) on the TV. But she was a bit upset when she failed to attract a bid last year,” says Sajeevan.
But a quick pep-talk from K Rajagopal, her current coach, kept Sajana, who once made a cameo appearance in Tamil movie Kanaa, motivated.
"I told her not to get disheartened after that auction. If you keep performing then the chance will certainly come your way again. She is a strong girl, and it was just the case of keeping her focus on the game.
"She did that when there was hardly any cricket during the flood (2018) and Covid days. Her desire to achieve her goal is her strength,” he says.
Sajana's perseverance was rewarded late last year when Mumbai Indians picked the 29-year-old up from the auction room for Rs 15 lakh, a jump of Rs 5 lakh from her base price.
"She was so happy. She called all her friends and coaches to thank them. Sajana told us that she never expected to get a contract from Mumbai, the biggest team in the league," says Sajeevan.
Sajana's impactful debut in the WPL, marked by a match-winning six over long-on off the bowling of off-spinner Alice Capsey, is a remarkable achievement.
Scoring a decisive shot in her first WPL appearance not only showcases her skill and composure under pressure but also solidifies her place as a dynamic player for Mumbai Indians.
Being compared to
Kieron Pollard
, a renowned West Indian all-rounder known for his explosive batting and powerful sixes, is a significant compliment from her teammate
Yastika Bhatia
.
"If you have watched Harry di (DC captain
Harmanpreet Kaur
) speak in interviews before, she mentioned that Sajana is a player to watch out for in this WPL.
"MI have faith in her and she is like Kieron Pollard of the women's team. She has got that role, and she did really well, credit goes to her,” Yastika said in the post-match press conference.
Sajana's hopes have also soared with that six.
"Sajana now says she wants to wear an Indian jersey soon like Minnu Mani (Indian cricketer from Wayanad, who played for Delhi on Friday). Hopefully, her dreams will come true," said Sajeevan.
(With PTI inputs)
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