Pooja Vastrakar

Pooja Vastrakar is a dynamic Indian all-rounder who has become a cornerstone of the national team's pace attack and lower-order batting. Born on September 25, 1999, in Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh, she is widely recognized for her ability to bowl at a brisk pace, often clocking between 105-110 kmph, while also being a clean striker of the ball. She made her international debut in early 2018 against South Africa and quickly proved her worth as a 'utility player' by scoring a half-century in just her second ODI against Australia. Representing Madhya Pradesh in domestic cricket, she has overcome significant injury setbacks, including knee and shoulder surgeries, to maintain her status as an elite athlete. Her career is highlighted by her role in major tournaments like the 2022 World Cup, where her crucial 67 against Pakistan helped secure a vital victory.

In the franchise circuit, Vastrakar was a high-value signing for the Mumbai Indians in the inaugural Women's Premier League, where she was bought for ₹1.9 crore and helped the team secure the 2023 title. Although a shoulder injury forced her to miss the 2025 WPL season, she remained a highly sought-after talent, sparking a bidding war in the late 2025 auction before being secured by Royal Challengers Bengaluru for ₹85 lakh. Her international experience is further bolstered by her time in the Women's Big Bash League with the Brisbane Heat, where she gained valuable exposure to global playing conditions. Known for her aggressive mindset and athletic fielding, she is often nicknamed 'Chota Hardik Pandya' for her game-changing all-round capabilities. As she transitions to her new team for the 2026 season, she remains one of India's most vital assets across all three formats of the game.