How being a psychology student helped Pratika Rawal thrive in international cricket

It’s been a dream start to international cricket for 24-year-old Pratika Rawal, who made her India debut in the WODI series against West Indies Women last month. Pratika has opened the batting alongside Smriti Mandhana, taking the place of Shafali Verma, and has registered scores of 89, 18, 76 & 40, looking like a seasoned player despite being a newbie. 

On January 10 (Friday), in the first ODI against Ireland Women in Rajkot, the right-hander secured her first Player of the Match award for her 96-ball 89 which helped India complete their quickest ever chase - in terms of scoring rate - in WODIs. 

She revealed after the match how the psychology degree she holds has helped her thrive at international stage

“I am comfortable here. It helps a lot, always enjoy watching Mandhana from the other end. It eases me down. Being a student of Psychology also helps to stay calm,” Pratika said.

After conceding 238, India got to the target in just 34.3 overs. The team were off to a flying start, getting to 70 off the first 10 overs. 

Pratika revealed that the rapid chase was a result of just the batters going with the flow.

“We were just trying to keep it simple, we had a good start. We just had to carry on the momentum. At the end, Tejal also played really well,” she said.

It’s been an extraordinary start to the youngster’s career, but, for the time being, Pratika has no interest in looking too far ahead. Her only aim? To take it one match at a time.

“I am not thinking about the results, not thinking about the big numbers, just taking it one match at a time,” Pratika said.