MS Dhoni fan Richa Ghosh wants to grow in her role as ‘finisher’

Embracing her role as the “finisher,” Indian cricketer Richa Ghosh, a fervent admirer of the legendary MS Dhoni, expressed that her ability for power-hitting is a natural talent. The 19-year-old played a crucial part in India’s thrilling Super Over victory in the second T20I against Australia, where she contributed with a blistering 13-ball 26 not out, featuring three sixes, allowing India to match Australia’s formidable total of 187. In the subsequent Super Over, she began with a six off the first delivery.

“I have always focused on power-hitting. I worked hard on it and also concentrated on improving my mental toughness. It all fell into place as per our plan,” she remarked, considering her performance in the second T20I as the pinnacle of her emerging career. “I always aim to stay until the end and secure the victory for my team. We had a well-devised plan. The objective was to maintain a steady run flow during the middle overs so that we wouldn’t need to go all out in the slog overs.”

It’s no surprise that Richa Ghosh, the Indian wicketkeeper-batswoman, looks up to none other than MS Dhoni as her idol and revealed that she grew up watching his batting prowess. “Since my childhood, I’ve followed Dhoni and observed how he used to finish games,” shared the young talent from Siliguri. “My dad (Manabendra Ghosh) has also played a significant role in honing my power-hitting skills; he accompanied me everywhere. Though he couldn’t become a successful cricketer, he’s wholeheartedly supporting me in pursuing my dreams.”

However, Ghosh does have one regret—she hasn’t had the chance to meet her idol yet. “I haven’t had the opportunity to meet him yet. There have been instances when he left just before we were about to have a camp or play a match at a venue. Hopefully, I’ll meet him someday,” Ghosh expressed, adding that she hasn’t thought about what she’d ask her idol when that day comes.

Ghosh acknowledged that she gained weight during the COVID-19-induced break but has diligently worked on her fitness to get back in shape. This improvement in her physical condition has undoubtedly contributed to her power-hitting abilities. “I focused on my fitness as I gained weight during the COVID times, and now I am giving more attention to my fitness. Additionally, I worked on my shot-making while practicing power hitting,” she disclosed.