India may have lost the men’s Test series 1-2 under Shubman Gill’s leadership, but the Indian women’s cricket team scripted a stunning success story in England – winning both the T20 and ODI series.
The hero of the ODI triumph was 21-year-old fast bowler Kranti Gaur, whose incredible journey from extreme poverty to cricketing glory has now inspired millions.
Kranti Gaur took 9 wickets in 3 ODIs, becoming the highest wicket-taker of the series. She delivered a match-winning performance in the final ODI by claiming 6 wickets, helping India clinch the series 2-1.
A Story of Struggle and Grit
In a recent BCCI interview, Kranti Gaur opened up about the hardships she and her family faced. Her father lost his job, and her brother’s work was inconsistent. At one point, the family survived by begging for food and selling her mother’s jewellery to make ends meet. But Kranti didn’t give up on her dream of playing for India, even when survival itself was uncertain.
No Wickets in Debut Matches
Kranti made her ODI debut in May 2025 against Sri Lanka and a T20I debut in July against England – but failed to take any wickets in both games. This led to disappointment and pressure.
The Turning Point: Meeting Shubman Gill
Things changed dramatically after she met Shubman Gill in England on July 15, during the men’s team’s tour. She shared pictures of the meeting on Instagram. Whether it was Gill’s advice, motivation, or simply a lucky moment, the very next day Kranti’s performances transformed.
From zero wickets in her first two matches to 9 wickets in the ODI series, she became the symbol of India’s dominance and a beacon of hope for young athletes fighting their own battles.
A Name That Means Revolution
Fittingly named Kranti (which means “revolution”), she has lived up to it – not only on the field with her fiery spells, but also off it with a life story that proves that courage, patience, and self-belief can defeat even the harshest circumstances.