GUWAHATI: Wicketkeeper-batter Uma Chetry from Assam has earned a coveted call-up to the national squad for the upcoming series against South Africa.
Chetry will represent India across all formats of the sport—Tests, ODIs, and T20Is – in the series and has reportedly joined her teammates in Mumbai.
The series is particularly notable as it marks the first Test match between India and South Africa in a decade, with their last encounter dating back to 2014.
The announcement has been met with widespread celebration and support.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma congratulated the youngster for getting the national call-up.
Taking to social media on Friday, Sarma wrote, “She is the first player from Assam to be selected in the Test squad of a cricket tournament. My heartiest congratulations and best wishes to Uma!”
The Assam Cricket Association (ACA) also rejoiced the news and took to social media to extend their congratulations, stating, “Wicket keeper batter Uma Chetry of Assam has been named to represent India in all the formats (Tests, ODI & T20I) against the South Africa series. Wishing Uma all the best.”
ACA President Taranga Gogoi and Secretary Tridib Konwar also conveyed their best wishes to Chetry, highlighting the pride and inspiration she brings to the state.
Born on July 27, 2002, Uma Chetry hails from Kandulimari village in Bokakhat, Golaghat district.
Her journey into cricket was encouraged by her mother, who noticed her playing with her brother and other boys on the streets.
Chetry, the only girl among five siblings, attended Bokakhat Hindi High School.
Her humble background, coming from a family of farmers and daily wage earners, did not deter Uma from chasing her passion.
Chetry’s inclusion in the Indian squad comes as a replacement for the injured Yastika Bhatia.
Bhatia has previously been part of the Indian team that won gold at the Asian Games in Hangzhou last year and made her Women’s Premier League (WPL) debut with the UP Warriorz earlier this year.
