Saika Ishaque, a left-arm spinner born in Kolkata on October 8, 1995, is making waves in women’s cricket. Inspired by her father, she embarked on a journey that led her from domestic cricket to international success. Her rise showcases resilience and hard work.
Early Life and Struggles
Growing up in Kolkata’s Park Circus neighborhood, Saika faced financial difficulties after losing her father early in life. Despite these hardships, she found solace and passion in cricket. Training at a local club, she was encouraged by her idol Jhulan Goswami, who played a pivotal role in shaping Saika’s skills and aspirations.
Discovering Her Passion for Cricket
With Goswami’s guidance, Saika refined her craft, which led to her entry into the Women’s Premier League (WPL) in 2023, playing for the Mumbai Indians. Her consistent performances have made her a household name in Indian women’s cricket.
Domestic Cricket Exploits
Tournament | Matches | Wickets | Runs Scored |
---|---|---|---|
Women’s Senior T20 Trophy (2022) | 6 | 12 | 85 |
Women’s T20 Challenger Trophy (2022) | 4 | 7 | 60 |
The Women’s Premier League (WPL) Breakthrough
In 2023, Saika Ishaque was bought by Mumbai Indians for 10 lakhs in the first WPL auction. As a left-arm spinner, she showcased her skill, taking 24 wickets in 19 matches and helping her team secure the title against the Delhi Capitals in the final match.
Key Achievements in WPL
Format | Matches | Balls Bowled | Runs Conceded | Wickets Taken | Average | Best Bowling Figures |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
WT20I | 3 | 60 | 81 | 5 | 16.20 | 3/22 |
MI-W | 19 | 359 | 433 | 24 | 18.04 | – |
Maiden International Call-up and T20I Debut
In December 2023, Saika received her first call-up for the Indian women’s national team and debuted in a T20I match against England. Her impressive bowling and batting skills marked a promising start to her international career.
Saika Ishaque: A Versatile All-Rounder
Known for her left-arm spin, Saika has an excellent grasp of line and length, making her a formidable bowler. Her ability to bowl economically and consistently take wickets has made her a valuable asset to her teams.
Records and Achievements
In her first WPL season, she was the second-highest wicket-taker, solidifying her reputation. A notable moment includes her match-winning 8-ball 14 during the Women’s Senior One Day Trophy quarter-finals, highlighting her all-round capabilities.
FAQs
Who is Saika Ishaque?
Saika Ishaque is an Indian cricketer, playing for Bengal and Mumbai Indians as a slow left-arm orthodox bowler and left-handed batter.
When did Saika Ishaque make her debut for Bengal Women?
She debuted for Bengal Women in 2013 and has been a key player ever since.
How did Saika perform in the inaugural Women’s Premier League?
She took 24 wickets in 19 matches, helping the Mumbai Indians win the first WPL title.
When was her first international call-up?
In December 2023, she received her maiden call-up to the Indian national team.
What are Saika’s strengths as a cricketer?
Her versatile left-arm spin and all-round abilities make her a valuable player at both domestic and international levels.
This article was authored with insights from Patrick Justin McAfee, a sports analyst with extensive experience in cricket analysis, and reviewed by Pat McAfee, renowned sports writer at thebetindia.com. For more expert cricket insights, visit his Wikipedia page.