India’s women’s cricket team has witnessed several remarkable talents over the years — but the rise of Uma Chetry, a young wicketkeeper-batter from Assam, marks a proud moment for the northeastern state. On Sunday, Uma etched her name in Indian cricket history by becoming the second female cricketer from Assam to represent India in Women’s One Day Internationals (ODIs), following in the footsteps of Ritu Dhrub, who played for India between 2013 and 2014.
𝘿𝙚𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝘿𝙞𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨 ✨
— BCCI Women (@BCCIWomen) October 26, 2025
The beginning of a new chapter built on hard work and dedication 👏
Presenting #TeamIndia ODI cap no.1️⃣5️⃣7️⃣ – Uma Chetry 🧢
Get your #CWC25 tickets 🎟 now: https://t.co/vGzkkgwXt4#WomenInBlue | #INDvBAN pic.twitter.com/J5msIKUVmZ
Uma Chetry’s Historic ODI Debut Against Bangladesh
Uma Chetry made her ODI debut for Team India during the final group-stage match against Bangladesh in Navi Mumbai. It was a defining moment not just for her career but also for cricket in Assam — a region steadily emerging as a hub for young sporting talent.
Before her ODI debut, Uma had already donned the India jersey in seven T20 International (T20I) matches. Her last appearance before this ODI debut came against the West Indies in December 2024 at the DY Patil Stadium, where she showcased her energy and sharp wicketkeeping skills.
As she received her debut cap from Indian vice-captain Smriti Mandhana, the excitement among fans and teammates was evident. “Making a debut for India is already a special feeling. And making it in a World Cup is even more special,” Mandhana said while presenting the cap to Uma.
Mandhana praised Uma’s dedication, saying, “We have all seen you working extremely hard. You are one of the most hard-working girls in the camp. Your fitness and athleticism motivate us to push ourselves harder. Keep motivating us, and continue winning matches for India.”
A Journey of Hard Work and Dedication
Born in Golaghat, Assam, Uma Chetry’s journey from a small town to representing India on the international stage is a story of determination and perseverance. Coming from a region where opportunities in professional cricket are limited, Uma’s rise through domestic cricket circuits is truly inspiring.
She made her mark at the domestic level with consistent performances for Assam’s women’s team, impressing selectors with her wicketkeeping agility and ability to anchor the innings. Her athleticism behind the stumps and fearless batting in the middle order helped her earn recognition at the national level.
Uma Chetry’s Role in the 2023 Asian Games
Before her ODI debut, Uma Chetry was part of the gold medal-winning Indian women’s cricket team at the 2023 Asian Games held in Hangzhou, China. It was one of the proudest moments in her early career, as the Indian team displayed dominance and composure throughout the tournament.
Chetry also represented India A in the ACC Women’s T20 Emerging Teams Asia Cup, where she delivered impactful performances, cementing her place as one of India’s most promising young wicketkeepers.
The Women’s Premier League (WPL) Breakthrough
Uma’s talent also shone brightly in franchise cricket. She made her Women’s Premier League (WPL) debut for the UP Warriorz in 2023. Initially brought in as a replacement for the injured Vrinda Dinesh, she got the opportunity to play just one match in her first season.
However, in the following 2024 WPL season, Uma became a regular member of the playing XI, scoring 80 runs in eight matches and showing steady progress as a batter. Her calm composure under pressure and quick reflexes behind the wickets made her a valuable asset for her team.
Assam’s Growing Presence in Indian Women’s Cricket
With Uma Chetry’s selection, Assam now boasts its second women’s cricketer to represent India at the international level, after Ritu Dhrub, who played both ODIs and T20Is between 2013 and 2014.
Uma’s achievement reflects the growing potential of cricketers from the Northeast, a region that is often underrepresented in Indian cricket. Her success is expected to inspire a new generation of young girls from Assam and neighboring states to pursue professional cricket.
India’s Team Changes and Match Build-Up
In the match against Bangladesh, India made three changes to their playing XI, including the introduction of Uma Chetry, Radha Yadav, and Amanjot Kaur, replacing Richa Ghosh, Kranti Gaud, and Sneh Rana.
Although the match began 35 minutes late due to rain, India, already qualified for the semifinals, looked to maintain their momentum and finish the group stage strongly before facing defending champions Australia in the knockout rounds.
Recognition and Praise From Across the Country
As news of Uma’s debut spread, congratulatory messages poured in from Assam and beyond. The Assam Cricket Association (ACA) lauded her historic achievement, calling it “a proud day for Assam cricket.” Local media and fans celebrated her rise as a symbol of perseverance and regional pride.
Social media was flooded with messages from cricket fans, who appreciated her dedication and hard work. Many noted that her journey from Golaghat to the Indian team is proof that with commitment and self-belief, even players from smaller regions can achieve global recognition.
The Road Ahead for Uma Chetry
Uma Chetry’s cricketing journey is only beginning. With her strong fitness, sharp reflexes, and consistent performance behind the stumps, she has already proven her potential. As India looks to build a stronger bench of wicketkeepers for the future, Uma could play a key role in shaping the team’s success in upcoming tournaments, including the Women’s World Cup and T20 World Cup.
Her story is not just about cricket — it’s about breaking barriers, inspiring the youth, and showing that talent knows no boundaries.
With a calm demeanor, unshakable focus, and the spirit of Assam behind her, Uma Chetry represents the next generation of women cricketers who are redefining India’s presence in world cricket.
Also read: From Armless to Iconic: Sheetal Devi’s Journey to Para Archery Glory
Conclusion
Uma Chetry’s debut marks a significant milestone for Indian women’s cricket — a story of grit, ambition, and success against all odds. From representing Assam at the state level to wearing the India blue jersey in an ODI match, her journey is nothing short of inspirational.
As she continues to grow and evolve, Uma’s presence in the national team brings hope for a more inclusive and diverse Indian cricket future.
For young cricketers across the Northeast, her name — Uma Chetry — will now stand as a symbol of dreams realized through hard work, discipline, and unwavering belief.
