By Admin 
India’s path to glory at the women’s ODI World Cup was not without hurdles, with the biggest of them coming at the ACA-VDCA Stadium here.
The Women in Blue suffered back-to-back three-wicket defeats, first against South Africa and later in the blockbuster clash against seven-time champions Australia. While the results left the side hurting, for Arundhati Reddy, a pitstop on ‘home’ turf will remain a cherished memory.
“The results didn’t go in our favour and that was certainly upsetting but the atmosphere created by the people there was really nice. I genuinely enjoyed Vizag,” Arundhati told The Hindu.
“I think once we stepped onto the ground, [Shree] Charani and I, we realised that people knew about us because everywhere we walked, people were talking about us. That was a different experience.
From Guwahati to Colombo, India played at least one game at every hosting venue. Arundhati’s actual base, Hyderabad didn’t make the roster but Vizag offered her some familiar comforts.
“It’s funny because I’ve never walked into a stadium speaking Telugu. I knew I could speak Telugu to anyone inside the stadium. When you travel so much, it’s nice to get a sense that you’re among your people.”
The 28-year-old hailed the Andhra Cricket Association’s openness to suggestions, which saw them name a stand and a gate after seasoned cricketers Mithali Raj and Raavi Kalpana, respectively.
“It’s one thing to talk and another to implement and take action. I hope other associations and governments do their part, as it empowers women significantly. I genuinely believe that if you empower a woman, you’re empowering a family. Even in my family, my mom’s decision to let me play despite others telling her otherwise is why I am where I am today.”