Rise of Pratika Rawal: Psychology meets Cricket in a record-breaking knock

Pratika Rawal scored a sensational hundred against Ireland. (PTI Photo)

In just her sixth ODI, Pratika Rawal has announced herself as a rising star in Indian women’s cricket. The 24-year-old opener dazzled in Rajkot with a breathtaking 154 off 129 balls in the third ODI against Ireland, marking her maiden international century. Alongside stand-in captain Smriti Mandhana, who smashed a blistering 135 off just 70 balls, Pratika powered India to a record 435 for five—their highest-ever total in ODIs.

Born on September 1, 2000, in Delhi, cricket runs in Pratika’s veins. Her father, Pradeep Rawal, is a BCCI-certified Level-II umpire with the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA), a connection that perhaps sparked her love for the sport. Her cricketing journey began at Rohtak Road Gymkhana Cricket Academy under the guidance of coach Sharvan Kumar. Pratika’s foundation in sports, however, wasn’t limited to cricket. She also excelled in basketball, clinching a gold medal at the 64th School National Games in 2019 while representing Bal Bharati School in Rajender Nagar.

A stellar academic performer, Pratika completed her schooling at Modern School, Barakhamba Road, scoring an impressive 92.5% in her CBSE board exams. She later pursued a bachelor’s degree in psychology at Jesus & Mary College, New Delhi. Her academic background is more than a résumé highlight—it’s a cornerstone of her approach to cricket. In a video shared by the BCCI titled Pratika Rawal: Psychology Meets Cricket, she remarked,  “Understanding the human mind has helped me process things on and off the field.”

Pratika’s domestic career began with Delhi, where she represented the team from 2021 to 2024 before transitioning to Railways. She made her international debut last month in the home series against West Indies, where she scored 40 runs and formed a vital 110-run opening partnership with Mandhana. She also claimed her maiden ODI wicket in that game, dismissing West Indies skipper Hayley Matthews.

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Reflecting on her innings against Ireland, Pratika emphasised her dedication to learning and growth. Her 233-run stand with Mandhana not only set the foundation for India’s historic total but also underscored her ability to step up on the big stage.

With her blend of skill, mental strength, and a deep connection to the game, Pratika Rawal is a name to watch—a cricketer whose journey exemplifies how psychology and sport can intersect to create magic on the field.