New Delhi: As India prepares for a busy season leading up to the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup later this year, Mumbai fast bowler Saima Thakor is focused on enhancing her performance. Considered a promising pace option alongside Renuka Singh Thakur, Thakor's recent performances in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) have raised some concerns.

Representing UP Warriorz, she did not take any wickets in her four matches. In fact, her struggle began during the ODI series against West Indies and Ireland. While this can be a challenging mental hurdle for any bowler, Thakor has found encouragement and motivation from her Warriorz teammate, Sophie Ecclestone, who is the top-ranked bowler in white-ball formats.

“Sophie reminded me that what we do is a privilege not many get to experience. Therefore, I should cherish this opportunity. One never knows how long it will last, so I need to focus on enjoying my cricket more,” Thakor shared with HT.

This conversation helped the 28-year-old shift her focus from her lackluster form to a commitment to self-improvement, engaging in video analysis and refining her skills.

In addition to the support from the Warriorz coaching staff, she has sought advice from Mumbai state coach Sunetra Paranjape and former India pacer Niranjana Nagarajan, looking for their perspectives to enhance her game.

“I consulted with the coaches, and I wouldn’t categorize this as a bad phase or slump. It’s more about maintaining the right mindset and managing nerves during crucial matches,” Thakor elaborated.

Despite facing a difficult season in the WPL, Thakor remains a contender for the second pacer position for India, vying against competitors such as Titas Sadhu. Shikha Pandey and Kashvee Gautam emerged as the top-performing Indian pacers during the WPL.

With the Senior Women’s Multi-Day Trophy set to commence on March 25, followed by an international tri-series involving India, Sri Lanka, and South Africa in April, Thakor has several opportunities to solidify her position ahead of the World Cup.

“It’s beneficial that we have numerous tournaments leading up to the World Cup. I am eager for it,” she expressed.

Thakor, who previously played football, is familiar with overcoming challenges. Her career has been marked by resilience, particularly during the injury-plagued 2019-20 season that nearly derailed her ambitions.

A back injury kept her off the field for three months, and just as she regained her fitness and participated in a tournament, she encountered a shoulder injury that sidelined her for an additional three months.

“Much of the season passed me by. It was disheartening to watch from the sidelines, but upon returning after the shoulder injury, I felt a shift. After enduring months of uncertainty and rehabilitation, I realized that the results no longer mattered to me; I simply wanted to play.”

“I wouldn’t describe it as a positive experience, but it certainly shaped my character. It made me more grounded and authentic. When I eventually returned to the game, I adopted a new perspective.”

As India enters a pivotal stage with upcoming preparatory tours, Thakor, equipped with a renewed mindset, understands that she has tasks ahead of her.

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