Some stories are too incredible—until they happen. Gongadi Trisha’s meteoric rise in women’s cricket is one such tale. From picking up a bat at just two-and-a-half years old to making history on the world stage, her journey has been nothing short of spectacular.
Trisha’s cricketing odyssey began almost before she could walk properly. By the time she was eight, she was already playing for Telangana’s Under-12 team. At 17, she donned the national colors for the Under-19 squad, having previously made her mark in the state’s Under-16 side.
Her defining moment came in the recently concluded ICC U-19 World Cup, where she played a pivotal role in India’s triumphant campaign. As a batter, she dismantled bowling attacks with remarkable consistency, guiding India to victory over South Africa in the final held in Kuala Lumpur. Her stellar performance has now catapulted her into the race for the coveted 2025 Player of the Year award.
Having been part of India’s victorious 2023 campaign, Trisha returned stronger in this edition, amassing 309 runs at a staggering average of 77.25. Her exploits included a sensational century, which earned her the prestigious Player of the Tournament award. But she wasn’t just about runs—her handy leg-spin also fetched her seven crucial wickets, proving her mettle as an all-rounder.
Beyond personal accolades, Trisha’s success is a moment of pride for Telangana and the Hyderabad Cricket Association, which nurtured her early cricketing years. In an exclusive chat with me, she reflected on her journey, struggles, and ambitions.
Trisha credits her father (Gongadi Rami Reddy) for spotting her talent at a tender age and ensuring she had the best opportunities. His determination was evident when he relocated her to Hyderabad, enrolling her in the renowned St. John’s Coaching Academy in Secunderabad. This academy has produced legends like Mithali Raj and VVS Laxman, and Trisha found her biggest inspiration in Mithali.
“Mithali Raj has always been my idol. She encouraged me when I was just starting, and I closely studied her technique to improve my game,” Trisha revealed. She fondly recalled watching India’s 2011 World Cup triumph on her father’s lap, a moment that ignited her dream of wearing the national jersey.
Many have drawn parallels between her batting style and that of Virat Kohli, a comparison she relishes. “I’d love to play alongside him one day,” she said with a smile.
Her journey, however, was not without challenges. Hailing from a rural background, she initially struggled with a lack of proper facilities. But her father’s unwavering support and personal sacrifices helped her push through.
“I made my senior Hyderabad debut in 2017 in the Women’s T20 League. Later, I played for India ‘B’ in the 2021-22 Under-19 Women’s Cricket Challengers and the Women’s Challenger Trophy. These experiences shaped me for bigger opportunities.”
Playing a World Cup final is every cricketer’s dream, but it comes with immense pressure. Trisha, however, thrives under such expectations.
“You have to be both mentally and physically prepared. Hard work and concentration are key. One must stay focused and learn from mistakes,” she explained.
On fitness, she credits her father, a trainer himself, for instilling discipline in her regimen. “From early morning runs to daily exercises, he ensured I stayed in peak shape. Skill-wise, I keenly observe great players and implement their techniques in my game.”
When asked about pre-match rituals, she gave a cryptic smile. “Yes and no. Can’t elaborate beyond that,” she teased.
As an all-rounder, her primary focus is on batting, followed by bowling and fielding. “Fielding is crucial—it can make or break your selection. One must be as fit as a fiddle.”
Having dominated at the junior level, Trisha now sets her sights on the senior national team. “It’s the ultimate honor to wear the Indian jersey. I’ve played for India A, but I didn’t get many opportunities. I hope, with God’s grace, I’ll soon earn my place in the senior squad.”
With talent, determination, and an already impressive resume, Gongadi Trisha is poised to become one of India’s biggest cricketing stars. The journey has just begun, and the world is watching.
