Despite putting in good performances in the previous domestic season, Tarannum Pathan couldn’t find any takers in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2023 player auction.
My family supported me a lot at that time and encouraged me by saying ‘you need to put in more hard work’. My friends also supported me a lot at that time and were optimistic in their mindset by saying to me ‘you can put in better performance in next season to get selected by the franchises (in the next season)’,” said Tarannum in a virtual interaction organised by Gujarat Giants.
The Giants, who finished at bottom of points table in WPL 2023, are seeking a turnaround in fortunes at WPL 2024. Though Tarannum is not guaranteed a place in the starting eleven, considering Giants have spin-bowling all-rounders in vice-captain Sneh Rana, Harleen Deol, Dayalan Hemalatha, a platform like the WPL is giving Tarannum the impetus to have a crack at playing for India.
“I have thought about that (national team selection) as in last edition of the WPL, you saw the performers from the competition and from the domestic level being rewarded with selections in the Indian team. It’s a very big opportunity and depends on how one grabs it.”
“The thing right now is, whenever you get the chance, you got to perform well. Honestly speaking, the staff here has kept us very freely, instead of saying ‘you got to perform here’ and tell us to ‘give our best and not think much’. If a chance comes, will try to give 110% and it’s in the mind that if I perform at my best here, then Indian team selection is possible.”
Hailing from Baroda, Tarannum grew up playing cricket with her father and paternal uncle at home. “In the colony, where I lived, there used to be only one TV and that was at my house.