In the high-pressure world of international cricket, where matches can be won or lost in the mind as much as on the field, one woman is quietly revolutionizing how India's female cricketers approach the mental game. Meet Pratika Rawal, the sports psychologist who's turning psychological theory into tangible runs and wickets for the national team.
The Mental Game Changer
While most fans focus on batting averages and bowling figures, Rawal works on what happens between the ears. "Cricket is 80% mental once you reach this level," explains the Delhi-based psychologist who has become an integral part of the women's team setup. "All players have the technical skills, but the ones who consistently perform are those who master their mindset."
From Theory to Boundary Lines
Rawal's approach isn't about abstract psychology concepts but practical, actionable strategies that players can implement immediately. Her methods include:
- Visualization techniques where players mentally rehearse successful performances
- Pressure simulation that prepares athletes for high-stakes match situations
- Emotional regulation tools to maintain composure during crunch moments
- Personalized mental frameworks tailored to each player's personality
Building Mental Resilience
With the ICC Women's World Cup 2025 on the horizon, Rawal's work has taken on even greater significance. "Tournament cricket tests mental endurance like nothing else," she notes. "We're building psychological resilience that will help our players not just survive but thrive under pressure."
Her methods have already shown remarkable results, with several players demonstrating improved performance consistency and better handling of pressure situations in recent series.
More Than Just Cricket
Rawal's influence extends beyond the cricket field. She emphasizes the importance of mental health and work-life balance for athletes who face immense public scrutiny and the pressures of professional sport.
"These are young women navigating fame, expectations, and personal lives alongside their careers," she says. "My role includes helping them maintain their identity beyond cricket and develop coping mechanisms for the unique challenges they face."
The Future Is Mental
As women's cricket continues to grow in popularity and competitiveness, Rawal believes the mental aspect will become even more crucial. "The physical gap between teams is narrowing," she observes. "The next frontier of advantage will be psychological preparation and mental toughness."
With practitioners like Pratika Rawal leading the charge, Indian women's cricket isn't just developing better players—it's cultivating smarter, mentally stronger athletes ready to conquer the world stage.
