Emotional Homecoming for World Cup Champion
Indian cricketer Arundhati Reddy experienced an unforgettable hero's welcome at Hyderabad International Airport on Thursday night as she returned home following the national team's groundbreaking victory in the ICC Women's World Cup. The atmosphere crackled with energy as supporters waved tricolour flags and filled the air with celebratory chants, marking a historic moment for Indian women's cricket.
Mother's Pride and Childhood Dreams
Among the enthusiastic crowd stood Bhagya Reddy, the 28-year-old right-arm medium-fast bowler's mother, who watched with immense pride as her daughter received the welcome of a champion. Recalling the team's triumphant moment, Bhagya shared: "I was there with my family, and I cannot even describe that moment. I was crying, screaming at the top of my voice, jumping like a small kid. After the trophy presentation, I came running down to the ground—it was such an amazing feeling."
The emotional mother revealed how Arundhati's cricket journey began unexpectedly. "Arundhati was around 10 or 11 when she started playing cricket with the boys in our colony," Bhagya recalled. "As a volleyball player myself, I have always valued sports highly. When I saw her interest growing, I decided to enroll her for coaching under Ganesh sir at Mahbub College in Secunderabad." Notably, this is the same coach who briefly worked with legendary cricketer Mithali Raj during her playing career.
Single Mother's Silent Sacrifices
Behind Arundhati's success story lies the inspiring tale of her mother Bhagya, a single parent and school teacher who quietly navigated life's challenges while raising her daughter. "I never showed my children the struggles I faced," Bhagya revealed. "Whatever problems I had, I kept them to myself. I saw the potential in Arundhati early on and made sure she got the right support and opportunities to pursue cricket."
The dedicated mother offered valuable advice to parents everywhere: "Parents should always encourage their children in whatever field they show interest in, that's what truly matters." Her unwavering support and belief in her daughter's talent played a crucial role in shaping Arundhati's path to becoming a world champion.
Official Recognition and Celebration
The celebration reached official levels as Sports Authority of Telangana (SAT) chairman K Shiva Sena Reddy, along with vice-chairman and managing director A Sonibala Devi, personally felicitated Arundhati upon her arrival. This formal recognition underscored the significance of her achievement and the pride it brought to the entire Telangana region.
The historic victory represents India's first-ever ICC Women's World Cup title, marking a watershed moment for women's cricket in the country. Arundhati Reddy's journey from playing with boys in her Hyderabad colony to becoming part of the world champion Indian team serves as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers across the nation.
