A proud moment for me and my family, says Kranti Gaud

India’s 22-year-old fastbowling prodigy Kranti Gaud is lighting up the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, delivering yet another match-winning performance to help India outclass arch-rivals Pakistan by 88 runs at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Sunday.

- TRIDIB BAPARNASH

The right-arm quick produced a fiery spell, finishing with 3 for 20 in 10 overs, including three maidens, to dismantle Pakistan's top order and seal India’s second consecutive win of the tournament.

Gaud's rapid rise has been the result of relentless effort and refinement of her craft, something she reflected on after being named Player of the Match.

‘Tmreally happy. Being the Player of the Match today is a very proud moment for me and my family. My India debut was in Sri Lanka, and today Tve been named Player of the Match herein Sri Lanka again. Tmtruly very happy,’ she said.

While her express pace has drawn attention, Gaud revealed that her focus remains firmly on accuracy and consistency rather than sheer speed.