A new generation of Indian women’s
The four bowlers emerged from a rigorous selection process that saw 7,500 participants undergo trials, culminating in a 56-player finale in Mumbai. Their success in the program has granted them access to high-performance coaching and world-class facilities, where they are currently working under the guidance of coach Krishna Kumar to bridge the gap between domestic cricket and international standards.
Pathways to the National Stage
Nineteen-year-old Akshita Bhagat has already secured a significant milestone, earning a call-up to the India ‘A’ one-day squad for the upcoming home series against Australia ‘A’. A former batter who transitioned to pace, the Mohali teenager credits the Speed Queen program for providing the tactical foundation and confidence necessary to advance her career. Having represented Punjab in age-group and senior domestic cricket, Bhagat views her time at the Centre of Excellence as a transformative experience that has allowed her to observe the routines of established international players.
The group also features two 15-year-old prospects, Joshna Angel and Palak Singh, both of whom demonstrated impressive raw speed during the trials by clocking 108 kmph. Angel, a Chennai native who took up the sport during the pandemic, is focusing on the physical demands of elite cricket, including nutrition and fitness discipline. Meanwhile, Singh is leveraging her background in athletics to develop her bowling, with a clear goal of breaking into the India U-19 setup. Both teenagers are learning that sustained success at the top level requires a balance of pace, accuracy, and swing.
Refining Skills at the Centre of Excellence
For 24-year-old Rohita Chowdry, the initiative served as a vital career turning point. After struggling to cement her place in the Karnataka senior side, the former heptathlete regained her form and confidence through the program, where she recorded a top speed of 109 kmph. Chowdry, who holds a degree in international relations and journalism, has found the exposure to the Centre of Excellence’s professional environment—including interactions with VVS Laxman—to be instrumental in her development.
As these four athletes continue their training, the focus remains on the holistic requirements of modern fast bowling. Through their exposure to the BCCI’s specialized coaching and strength and conditioning programs, they are gaining a deeper understanding of the technical and physical rigors required to compete for a spot in the senior India team. Each bowler continues to draw inspiration from international icons, ranging from Jhulan Goswami to Mitchell Starc, as they navigate their respective paths toward professional representation.
