Sharanya Sadarangani Becomes First Woman Cricketer to Play in ECS T10 League

Sharanya Sadarangani has become the first woman cricketer ever to take the field at European Cricket Series T10 League (ECS) on June 29. The 24-year-old served as wicket-keeper for German Bundesliga Champions Kummerfelder Sportverein (KSV) team, which played against the PSV Hann Munden in the opening match held in Kummerfeld, Germany. Though her team lost by five wickets, Sadarangani's performance was lauded by cricketing experts.

Speaking to European Cricket Network (ECN) about her experience of playing in the Dream11 ECS, Sadarangani said, "It’s a fantastic competition to be involved in. Having not experienced any T10 cricket before, it’s great to get the opportunity to play in this format of the game.”

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Praises Pour in for the Cricketer and Women's Cricket

ECS Founder Daniel Weston was all praises for Sadarangani, saying that she has paved the way for other women cricketers to follow. He said, “Cricket is a game for all and to be enjoyed by all, on and off the field. The way Sharanya kept wicket in her first match was very impressive and should be applauded and a door opener for all talented female cricketers in Europe to take their own cricket to higher levels. What Sharanya has done today will only see her improve further and take more catches in the matches to come!"

Sadarangani, who is lovingly called Sharu by everyone in the cricket circle, came in at number 11 to play and was reported to have taken a brilliant catch and a couple of defensive shots before being run out. Brian Mantle, CEO of the Deutscher Cricket Bund (DCB), praised her game, saying,  “Sharu is an excellent player who also contributes immensely to the growth of the women’s game in Germany."

“It’s great to see women’s cricket growing. We hope to see women’s cricket shown on the European Cricket Network very soon.” Mantle added. Meanwhile, Weston said that men and women are equally eligible to play in the ECS, explaining, “The playing conditions lets any gender play in these official matches, which are sanctioned as official cricket under the Deutscher Cricket Bund under the Federation’s ICC membership. Therefore, women are eligible if they are selected in the club’s squad.”

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About Sharanya Sadarangani

Sadarangani is due to turn 25 in a few days' time. She has previously represented the Karnataka U19 state team in Bangalore, alongside World Cup players like Veda Krishnamurthy and Rajeshwari Gayakwad. "She is currently a member of the Germany squad with international experience for Denmark and in England with Essex CCC," according to ECN.

Image Credit: The Bridge

Tanvi Akhauri is an intern with SheThePeople.TV.