Harmanpreet's journey from dusty fields of Moga to the grandest stage of world cricket

In a spectacular display of grit, skill and leadership, Harmanpreet Kaur, the trailblasing captain of the Indian Women’s Cricket Team and girl from Moga, has powered India into the final of the Women’s Cricket World Cup. This monumental achievement follows a thrilling semi-final triumph over Australia in Mumbai, securing India’s place in the summit clash and etching a golden chapter in the annals of Indian cricket.

Born on March 8, 1989, in Moga, Punjab, Harmanpreet Kaur’s rise to stardom is a story of raw talent refined through relentless dedication. The daughter of Harminder Singh, a clerk in the local district courts, and Satwinder Kaur, Harmanpreet grew up in a modest household where her love for sports was nurtured early. She often accompanied her father — an avid sports enthusiast who played basketball, handball and football — to local playgrounds, where her passion for games first took shape.

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Harmanpreet began her education at a government girls’ school in Moga before moving to a private institution to pursue cricket more seriously. Recognising her immense potential, Kamaldeesh Singh Sodhi, the owner of a private cricket academy and school — Gyan Jyoti in Darapur village on the Moga–Ferozepur Road — offered her admission and a platform to hone her skills.

Her family has been her unwavering support. Harmanpreet has two younger siblings — a sister settled in Canada and a brother in Australia — while her proud parents are currently in Mumbai, cheering her on from the stands during her team’s historic campaign.

A powerful right-handed batter and a handy off-spin bowler, Harmanpreet has consistently pushed the boundaries of Indian women’s cricket. While her recent semi-final heroics have captivated the nation, her unbeaten 171 off 115 balls against Australia in the 2017 World Cup semi-final remains one of the most iconic innings in the history of the sport — a moment that transformed the perception of women’s cricket in India.

Harmanpreet was the first Indian woman to be signed by an overseas T20 franchise, making her debut in Australia’s Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL). She is also the first Indian woman to score a T20 International century and remains the only Indian woman cricketer with over 3,000 runs in T20Is. Across all formats, she has amassed more than 8,000 international runs, a testament to her consistency and class.

Harmanpreet Kaur is more than just a captain — she is the embodiment of a new, confident India, inspiring millions of young girls to chase their dreams fearlessly. Her journey from the dusty fields of Moga to the grandest stage of world cricket stands as a shining example of perseverance, passion and pride.