Tanuja Kanwar, a 26-year-old left-arm spinner from a small village in Himachal Pradesh, made her One Day International (ODI) debut for India Women against West Indies Women in Vadodara on December 27, 2024. This achievement marks a significant milestone in her journey, which began in the lanes of Kuthar, Shimla, where cricket was not a common sport for girls.
Early Life and Career
Tanuja’s story is one of determination and support. Growing up in Kuthar, she played cricket with makeshift balls made of cloth, often with her cousins. Her father, a farmer, recognized her passion and encouraged her to pursue the sport. The family took a bold step by sending her to a cricket academy in Dharamsala, where she was mentored by coach Pawan Sen. Under his guidance, Tanuja developed into a skilled all-rounder.
Rise to Prominence
Tanuja’s talent soon caught attention in the domestic circuit. She joined the Railways team and impressed in the Senior Women’s One-Day Trophy, taking 18 wickets in just eight matches with an impressive economy rate of 2.43. Her performance earned her a spot in the Women’s Premier League (WPL), where she was signed by the Gujarat Giants for ₹50 lakh. In the 2024 WPL season, Tanuja emerged as the top wicket-taker for the Giants, claiming 10 wickets in eight games. Her standout performance against Meg Lanning’s Capitals, where she took 2/20, showcased her ability to perform on the big stage.
International Debut
Before her ODI debut, Tanuja made her Twenty20 International (T20I) debut for India Women against UAE in the 2024 Women’s Asia Cup on July 21, 2024. Her journey from playing with makeshift balls to donning the Indian jersey is a testament to her hard work and dedication.
Future Prospects
With her ODI debut, Tanuja has taken another significant step in her career. She is poised to become a regular member of the Indian team, given her skills and recent performances. This debut marks just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting career for Tanuja Kanwar.
