Past 1 year was full of struggle, hard work paid off in World Cup: Shafali Verma

Haryana woman cricketer Shafali Verma on Sunday said the past one year had been very challenging, as she had to work extremely hard to improve her game and regain form.

“The last one year was really tough for me. I faced several struggles, but I kept working hard and God rewarded that effort. When I joined the Indian team ahead of the semifinal, I was determined to contribute to the World Cup victory. The final is always a big stage. Initially, I was a bit nervous, but I calmed myself, focused on my strategy, and executed it well. That helped me deliver an all-round performance,” Safali told mediapersons after her felicitation at the Circuit House here.

A considerable number of people, including BJP leaders and officials, were present on the occasion to congratulate her.

Recalling the crucial moments of the final, Shafali said, “When I was asked to bowl, my only thought was to take wickets. Dismissing their set batters at that stage proved to be the turning point.”

On missing out on a century, Shafali smiled and said, “A century doesn’t matter when you have won the World Cup.”

She also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying, “The Prime Minister spent at least two hours with us and motivated us. We felt proud that he gave us so much of his time.”

For young girls aspiring to pursue sports, Shafali’s message was simple: “Believe in your talent and keep working hard. Nothing is difficult if you have faith in yourself and are consistent.”

She also maintained that before the final match, she had been a bit nervous, but her father and family encouraged her by reminding her of her past performances.

“Their words gave me confidence,” she said, adding that she was excited to meeting Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on November 12.

Speaking on the occasion, Haryana Minister Krishan Bedi said Shafali had brought laurels to the state with her performance.

“She played only two matches in the tournament but delivered star performances. She is an inspiration to all age groups. The Chief Minister would meet Shafali and her family on November 12,” Bedi informed.

When asked about a possible government position for her, he said an announcement in this regard would be made by the Chief Minister.

Later, Shafali headed to her residence in the Ghanipura locality in an open jeep, accompanied by Bedi and former minister Manish Grover.