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Indian pacer Shikha Pandey is all set to make history as she joins the Canterbury Magicians for the ongoing Women’s Super Smash 2024-25 in New Zealand. The club announced her inclusion on Thursday, making her the first Indian cricketer to participate in the tournament.
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Women’s Super Smash Overview
The Women’s Super Smash, a six-team T20 tournament, kicked off on Thursday and will run until February 2, 2025. The Canterbury Magicians, led by Laura Hughes, will open their campaign against the Otago Sparks in Alexandra on Friday.
Shikha Pandey’s Stellar Form
Pandey’s inclusion comes on the back of her impressive performances in global leagues this year:
- WBBL 2024: Playing for Brisbane Heat, Pandey bagged 12 wickets in 12 matches at an economy rate of under seven. Her new-ball expertise played a key role in Heat finishing as runners-up.
- WCPL 2024: Earlier this year, she represented Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) in the Women’s Caribbean Premier League.
Her consistent performances in franchise cricket underscore her experience and skill as a T20 bowler.
India Career
Although Pandey last played for India in the 2023 T20 World Cup in South Africa, where she took three wickets in three games, she has been sidelined in favor of younger bowlers in recent times. Nonetheless, her international stats speak volumes:
- T20Is: 43 wickets in 62 matches at an economy rate of 6.49.
- ODIs: 75 wickets in 55 matches.
Other Overseas Talent
Joining Pandey in the Magicians’ overseas roster is Australia’s Madeline Penna, making Canterbury’s squad a balanced mix of local and international talent.
Making History
Pandey’s entry into the Women’s Super Smash marks another milestone in her career and reflects the growing influence of Indian players in global women’s cricket. As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on her as she adds firepower to Canterbury’s bowling attack.
Best of luck to Shikha Pandey as she embarks on this exciting chapter!
