She was all of 21 when she became the highest wicket-taker in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) where she played for her home team Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). A key factor in RCB clinching their maiden WPL title in 2024, cricketer Shreyanka Patil went on to receive the purple cap for her feat and garner a huge fan following after shining in the league. Having played for Karnataka as well as India, the Bengaluru-based athlete is currently recuperating from an injury due to which she had to withdraw from this year’s WPL. Despite facing challenges, the youngster has overcome them with her grit and passion for the game.
In a candid chat with us, the all-rounder opens up about women’s cricket, her idol Virat Kohli and more….
- How and at what age did your tryst with cricket happen?
Cricket was all around me when I was growing up. My father ran a cricket academy close to home and my younger brother was an active player. When I was around nine, I started visiting the academy, doing a couple of drills and playing with the boys. That’s where my love for this game was ignited and my journey began. - How is it playing with Smriti Mandhana as captain?
Easy – that really sums up playing under Smriti. She creates a very relaxed and positive environment. Everybody is given specific and clear tasks and we really just have to do our thing and perform. She’s also a very dear friend and is always guiding me. - During the WPL, you played with top cricketers from different countries. How was the learning experience for you?
That’s one of the best aspects of leagues like the WPL. Not only do we get to play with the best in the world, there’s so much off-time to pick each of their brains and discuss challenges. I’ve picked up nuances in technique, training routines and mental preparation, all of which have contributed to my growth as a cricketer. - Women’s cricket in India has grown substantially over the last few years. What more do you want to see to bring more attention towards women’s cricket?
The growth of women in cricket has been really nice to see – we used to get written off before as boring cricketers, but leagues like the WPL, WBBL and WCPL are definitely changing that.
Recently, in the season opener of the WPL, both teams scored 200+ and it was a very entertaining game to watch. I feel more attention needs to be given to the existing coaching systems at the grassroots and domestic level of the game – coaching and training can be more relevant to the modern game. - What’s the best part about being a cricketer?
I get to wake up and do the one thing I love the most every single day of my life. I think nothing beats that feeling! Beyond the field, it’s about the little moments—the shared laughs with teammates, the long travel stories, and the bonds you build along the way.
And then, of course, there’s the thrill of the game itself—the nail-biting finishes, the joy of a win and even the heartbreaks that make the victories even sweeter. - How do you deal with the failures in the game?
My initial reaction to failure is frustration as I hate to lose! However, I understand there’s a lot of learning in failure, so I view it now as just another learning opportunity. Maintaining a positive mindset and seeking help from coaches and friends helps me navigate challenging times. - Who is your biggest inspiration?
Virat Kohli – I have observed him and his journey since when I started off playing the game. His passion and love for the sport is something that really resonates with me. I really admire the way he carries himself on and off the field and would love to pick up some of these attributes. - Do you have any advice for young girls who want to pursue cricket in India?
Dream big! It starts with that and then trust your instincts and be brave enough to do whatever it takes for you to achieve your dream. There will be challenges along the way – take them head on and make a mark! - What’s your mantra in life?
Smile. It sounds simple, but it means everything to me. No matter how tough the situation, how intense the pressure, or how big the setback, I remind myself to smile. It helps me stay positive and grounded, no matter what life throws my way. - Injuries and missing tournaments can take a mental toll. How do you deal with these setbacks?
It is very upsetting to miss matches and tournaments. Everything I do, I do to play these matches and perform. It does get difficult mentally, especially since I’m just starting out. However, as I mentioned before, my mantra is to smile through it all, and navigate these challenges with a positive mindset.