As you enter Ghuwara village in Madhya Pradesh, locals proudly direct you to Kranti Gaud, the all-rounder who recently led India to a historic World Cup victory. This triumph has not only made her a household name but also a source of immense pride for her community. Kranti’s journey to success has been marked by personal challenges, including her father’s long struggle to regain his job as a police constable, a situation she is now actively working to resolve following her newfound fame.

World Cup Glory and Community Pride
Kranti Gaud’s remarkable achievement in the World Cup has transformed her into a symbol of hope and inspiration for the people of Ghuwara. The village, once quiet and unassuming, now buzzes with stories of her success. Kranti’s performance on the field was pivotal in India’s victory over South Africa, etching her name into the annals of cricket history. The celebrations that followed were not just about personal glory; they also brought attention to the challenges her family faced.

Kranti’s father, Munna Singh, had been suspended from his position as a police constable for over a decade. The emotional weight of this situation has been a constant in Kranti’s life, and she has expressed her desire to help her father reclaim his lost honour. During a recent felicitation ceremony, she took the opportunity to speak with Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, requesting his assistance in her father’s case. The Chief Minister assured her that steps would be taken to address the issue, providing Kranti with hope that her father’s job reinstatement is on the horizon.

A Journey of Determination
Kranti’s journey to becoming a cricketer was not without its hurdles. Growing up in a small village, she often played cricket with boys who were older and more experienced. Despite initial scepticism from others about her abilities, her parents provided unwavering support. They encouraged her passion for the sport, allowing her to practice and learn alongside her male peers.

Reflecting on her early days, Kranti recalls how she would eagerly join the boys in their games, initially limited to fielding. However, her determination led her to learn the intricacies of bowling by observing and mimicking the techniques of her teammates. This hands-on experience laid the foundation for her future success, and she credits her parents for instilling in her the belief that she could achieve her dreams, regardless of societal expectations.

Dreams and Aspirations
With her World Cup victory, Kranti has witnessed a shift in perceptions about women’s capabilities in sports. She notes that many who once doubted girls’ potential are now inspired by her success. This change is not just personal for Kranti; it represents a broader movement toward gender equality in sports.

One of her dreams is to meet her idol, Hardik Pandya, an all-rounder for the Indian men’s cricket team. After her World Cup win, a photo of her mimicking Pandya’s iconic victory pose went viral, capturing the attention of fans and players alike. Kranti expressed her excitement when Pandya commented on her photo, stating that it was a moment she cherished. She hopes to meet him in person soon, as he has been a significant influence on her cricketing journey.

In addition to her aspirations, Kranti has secured a spot with the UP Warriorz for the upcoming WPL 2026 season. Having been retained for Rs 50 lakh, she is eager to contribute to the team’s success and aims to help them clinch a title. Her determination to excel in the sport remains strong, and she is committed to giving her best performance on the field.