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Sports
Jamtara Girls Lakshmi, Purnima Make History in Jharkhand U-19 Cricket Team
✍️ India Today
🗓 06 Oct 2026, 08:02 PM
👁 17
Lakshmi and Purnima, two girls from Jamtara, overcame poverty and ridicule to secure places in the Jharkhand under‑19 cricket squad.
Lakshmi and Purnima, two young cricketers from the small town of Jamtara in Jharkhand, have broken into the state’s under‑19 cricket team after a standout performance in a local tournament.
The pair, who grew up in modest homes and faced daily taunts for their ambition, impressed selectors with their batting and fielding skills. Their selection marks the first time two girls from Jamtara have been named in the Jharkhand U‑19 squad.
Officials said the duo’s inclusion comes ahead of the national under‑19 championship, where they will represent Jharkhand on a larger stage. Their journey is seen as an inspiration for young athletes in rural areas.
The girls expressed gratitude for the opportunity, noting that their success could encourage more girls from similar backgrounds to pursue sports.
Jharkhand Cricket Association praised the selectors for recognizing talent beyond the usual urban centers.
The pair, who grew up in modest homes and faced daily taunts for their ambition, impressed selectors with their batting and fielding skills. Their selection marks the first time two girls from Jamtara have been named in the Jharkhand U‑19 squad.
Officials said the duo’s inclusion comes ahead of the national under‑19 championship, where they will represent Jharkhand on a larger stage. Their journey is seen as an inspiration for young athletes in rural areas.
The girls expressed gratitude for the opportunity, noting that their success could encourage more girls from similar backgrounds to pursue sports.
Jharkhand Cricket Association praised the selectors for recognizing talent beyond the usual urban centers.