Harmanpreet Kaur's Inspiring Journey: From Moga to Asian Games Gold

A Father's Support in Harmanpreet Kaur's Cricket Journey

Harmanpreet Kaur, the captain of the Indian women's cricket team, began her cricketing journey in Moga, where the presence of girls on the field was minimal. Despite this, her father, Harmander Singh Bhullar, ensured she received training, even if it meant practicing with boys.

Reflecting on those early days, Bhullar shared, "People were hesitant to let their daughters play sports. I never saw a difference between girls and boys. I knew she needed to succeed, and she is doing just that." His pride was evident after the Indian women's team clinched gold at the Asian Games on Tuesday, as he remarked, "She has achieved what I always dreamed for her."

Bhullar, who had a passion for sports in his youth, played basketball and cricket but could not pursue them due to family obligations. He expressed, "I was selected for various sports, but my home responsibilities held me back."

When Harmanpreet was born, he resolved to provide her with the opportunities he missed. "From the moment she was born, I committed to encouraging her in sports. I would take her to the field and give her a plastic bat to play with at home, hoping she would one day play cricket," he explained.

During a time when girls were seldom seen on cricket fields, Bhullar had no reservations about allowing Harmanpreet to train with boys. Her early coach, Kamaldeesh Pal Singh Sodhi, recalled being struck by her talent and dedication. He began coaching her in Class 9 and noted her rapid emergence as a skilled fast bowler.

"She was an exceptional fast bowler and incredibly dedicated," Sodhi remarked. He also shared a memory of his son, who once played a match with Harmanpreet, saying, "When my son first played with her, he remarked, 'She is really fast.' She was destined to reach this level."