Experience That Commands Respect
Shikha Pandey remains one of the most respected fast bowlers in Indian women’s cricket, even though she has not featured regularly for the national team in recent years. One of the biggest reasons for her continued demand is her vast experience at the international level. Having represented India across formats, Shikha understands pressure situations, match awareness, and tactical bowling better than many younger players. Teams value players who bring calmness and clarity during crunch moments, and her years of international exposure make her a reliable asset. Experience is something that cannot be taught overnight, and Shikha Pandey’s career reflects the value of long-term consistency.
Proven Performer in Domestic and League Cricket
Despite her absence from the Indian squad, Shikha Pandey has continued to deliver strong performances in domestic tournaments and franchise leagues. Her ability to consistently pick wickets and maintain discipline in line and length keeps her in demand. In competitions like the Women’s Premier League (WPL), teams look for bowlers who can perform against top international batters. Shikha’s domestic numbers, economy rate, and wicket-taking ability show that she still has plenty to offer. Selectors may rotate national squads, but franchise teams focus more on current form and utility.
Rare Skill Set as an Indian Fast Bowler
Fast bowling has always been a rare commodity in Indian women’s cricket, and Shikha Pandey fits that category perfectly. She can swing the new ball, bowl effective seam-up deliveries, and adapt to different pitch conditions. Unlike many bowlers who rely solely on pace, Shikha uses variations, movement, and intelligent field placements to outthink batters. This versatility makes her useful in both powerplay and middle overs. Teams prefer bowlers who don’t depend on just speed but on cricketing intelligence, something Shikha has mastered over the years.
Leadership and Mentorship Value
Another major reason for Shikha Pandey’s high demand is her leadership and mentoring ability. Even when she is not leading the attack, she plays a crucial role in guiding young bowlers. Franchise teams and domestic sides often include experienced players not only for performance but also for team balance and dressing-room culture. Shikha is known for her professionalism, fitness discipline, and calm demeanor, which positively influences younger teammates. In tournaments where teams are a mix of international stars and emerging players, such leadership becomes priceless.
Fitness, Adaptability, and Professional Attitude
In modern cricket, fitness and adaptability are as important as raw talent. Shikha Pandey has consistently maintained high fitness standards, allowing her to compete with younger players. She has adapted her bowling to shorter formats like T20 cricket by developing slower balls, cutters, and tactical variations. Her willingness to evolve with the game shows her professional attitude. Teams trust players who invest in self-improvement rather than relying on past reputation. Shikha’s work ethic ensures she remains relevant even as the game evolves rapidly.
Selection Dynamics vs Actual Value
Not playing for India does not automatically reflect a lack of ability. National team selection often depends on multiple factors such as team combinations, future planning, and opportunities for youngsters. However, franchise leagues and domestic teams evaluate players based on immediate impact and skill set. Shikha Pandey’s continued demand highlights the difference between selection dynamics and actual cricketing value. Her performances, experience, and leadership make her a complete package. Until Indian women’s cricket develops a deep pool of fast bowlers with similar consistency, Shikha Pandey will remain a sought-after name regardless of her national team status.
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