10-Year-Old Shushila Mina’s Viral Cricket Video Turns Her Into a Local Sensation

Rajasthan:Just a few days ago, 10-year-old Shushila Mina was leading an ordinary life in a small village in Rajasthan, but everything changed when former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar shared a video of her playing cricket on social media. The video, in which Shushila demonstrates her impressive bowling action, quickly went viral, and her life has not been the same since.

Tendulkar, the legendary cricketer, praised Shushila’s bowling style, noting that her technique was reminiscent of former Indian fast bowler Zaheer Khan, known for his sharp swing and unique, measured approach. The video was watched by millions and shared thousands of times, catapulting Shushila into the spotlight. However, the irony of the situation is that Shushila, from a tribal family with no access to a television, had no idea who Sachin Tendulkar was until the video went viral.

“I don’t know who he (Sachin Tendulkar) is. We don’t have a television at home, and I’ve never watched cricket, but I am grateful to him,” Shushila said, unaware that the very person who made her famous was a cricketing icon.

Coming from a poor tribal household, Shushila is a fifth-grade student. Now, everyone she meets recognizes her and appreciates her talent. From politicians to social activists and even distant relatives, people are eager to take pictures with her.

When Shushila wears her school uniform and picks up a rubber ball to step onto the field, the shy girl transforms into a fearless and focused cricketer. “Once the ball is in my hand, all I can think of is getting the batter out,” she says with confidence.

Her classmate, Asha, who often stands on the other side with a bat, describes Shushila’s bowling as difficult. “Her ball turns unexpectedly and then crashes into the stumps,” Asha adds.

Shushila’s mother, Shanti Bai, is immensely proud of her daughter’s achievements. However, she notes that not everyone has been supportive. “Many people think that by allowing my daughter to play cricket instead of doing household chores, I am making the wrong choice. Such views are common in rural India, where girls are often expected to stay at home, and activities like sports are discouraged.”

Shanti Bai, however, remains unfazed by these opinions and says she will never stop her daughter from playing cricket. “I don’t listen to what people say. I will never stop her from playing cricket,” she asserts proudly.

At Shushila’s school, everyone plays cricket, and her teacher, Ishwar Lal Mina, is credited with introducing the game to the students. “When I joined the school in 2017, I started encouraging the students to play cricket. They needed an activity to keep them engaged; otherwise, they preferred staying at home,” says Ishwar Lal, who has played the role of a coach despite not having formal cricket training. He learns new techniques by watching YouTube videos.

Meanwhile, Shushila’s home is filled with cricket bats, even though she is a bowler. According to her teacher, no one has yet given Shushila a proper traditional cricket ball, which is much harder than the rubber ball she currently practices with.

When asked what she would do with all the bats, Shushila shyly replied, “I will try to use them.”

In Shushila’s village, the big question now is whether her viral fame will fade away, like the many gifts she has received, or if the attention will have a lasting impact on her life. Will her newfound recognition change her future, or will it just remain a passing moment of excitement? Only time will tell.