Meet VJ Joshitha, the first Malayali woman ever to be part of India's World Cup-winning squad

Wayanad: In an inspiring achievement, V. J. Joshitha, a cricketer from Wayanad, has made history by becoming the first Malayali woman to win an ICC Under-19 Women's T20 World Cup. Her remarkable journey to this success has captured the attention of the cricketing world and inspired many.

With her achievement, she has entered the coveted list of players from the state, including Sunil Valson, S. Sreesanth, and Sanju Samson, who have been part of India’s various World Cup winning campaigns. 

Joshitha, hailing from a village in Kalpetta, is the daughter of Joshy and Sreeja. She attended GVHSS in Munderi and was selected for the Kerala Cricket Association's Krishnagiri Cricket Academy when she was studying in class 6, marking the real beginning of her cricketing career. Following the footsteps of her accomplished seniors like Sajan Sajeevan and Minnu Mani, Joshitha’s dedication and hard work have borne fruit.

Her consistent performances earned her a place in the Indian team for the 2024 ICC Women’s Under-19 Asia Cup, where she stood out as one of the top performers. This success led to her selection in the Indian squad for the Under-19 Women's T20 World Cup, a competition in which she played an instrumental role in winning. During the tournament, Joshitha was a key player, taking six wickets in total, including a match-winning performance of 2 wickets for 5 runs against the West Indies in the opening match.

When India clinched the World Cup on Sunday, the entire family was overjoyed, gathered around the TV to celebrate the historic win. “This victory was her dream. I’m so proud of her,” said her mother, Sreeja, through tears of joy during a phone call. “I would also like to thank the Krishnagiri Cricket Academy and Kerala Cricket Association for their unwavering support. Her ultimate goal is to play for the senior Indian team, and I believe she will achieve it,” she added.

Joshitha, who is currently pursuing her degree at St. Mary’s College in Sulthan Bathery, has also earned a place in the upcoming Women’s Premier League (WPL), with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru securing her in the auction.

Her inspiring rise from the fields of Wayanad to the global stage is a testament to her hard work, perseverance, and the support of her family and coaches. As she now sets her sights on further success, the future looks bright for this young cricketer.