Harleen Deol Indian cricketer, one of the most promising all-rounders of India, began her cricketing career at the mere age 0f 8, and since then there was no turning back. She used to play with her brother, but after his brother went to higher studies, she was the only girl left among other boys. Negativity in the air rose enormously since a girl playing cricket wasn't desirable back then.
However, Harleen and her parents were determined, which led them to shift to Himachal Pradesh from Punjab so as to get the most of the opportunities in cricket. With dedication and hard work, she got into India A. Both Harleen and ace skipper Mithali Raj shared the same jersey number.
Fast&Up India had a fun interaction with her, and here's all you need to know about the cheerful, fun-loving and hardworking cricketer Harleen Kaur Deol!
My earliest memory of sports- when I started to play gully cricket
What exactly made you get into cricket?
I used to play with the boys in Punjab. Because of my brother, I started playing cricket. Not only Cricket, but I also used to play Football, Hockey and Basketball too. But, later on, I decided to continue cricket only. So, that's how I got into this game.
You have played in India A team, what do you think is needed more to be selected for the national team?
You need to perform on that platform. That only makes you select the India team. And you need to be more consistent by scoring runs or helping to the wins of your team.
Do you recall any interesting stories related to you by any of your elder relatives that you have never forgotten and that you think are worth telling to this audience?
when one of my uncles used to question my playing by saying that as a hobby it's fine but focus on our studies and I always wanted to prove myself to them. And now they are the same person who listens to my interviews and calls me to say well-done beta we are proud of you.
Who was the most influential person as a child: My mother
Nicknames: Harry
What were you most afraid of as a child: I was a brave child, afraid of nothing
Your Favourite subject during your school times: chemistry
How did you balance sports and studies- usually ever since class 4 I was a part of every school team and before the final exams just had a few days to cover up the syllabus. So had no option.
What did you like the most about school: that we had the option to play sports?
What did you like the least about school: that I have to study
What sort of after-school/out-of-school clubs did you attend: None
Was there someone you really looked up to when you were a teenager: Bret Lee
What was your favourite music/band in high school: Gurdas Mann
What would people you know find surprising about you as a teen: People were surprised when they came to know that I want to be a professional cricketer.
Did you ever thought of doing a 9 to 5 job: - NO
What would be your ideal job if you ever had to be one: would love to be a pilot
Describe about your sporting career: it has recently started and has a long way to go.
Your best day in the life: when I got my India cap from Jhulan Goswami
What is your definition of happiness: Happiness for me is the people around me.
What is your most memorable Sporting experience: in MCG in front of 86000 people
What is the funniest thing that's ever happened to you: I am a prankster so all the funny things happen to other people around me.
What accomplishment are you most proud of ODI cap-126, T20 cap-62
What accomplishment are you most proud of: People should remember me for the person I am and not as a cricketer
Biggest fan of- cricket: MS Dhoni
Others: Ronaldo and Messi
What do you like to do in your spare time: Netflix and chill
If you could possess one super-human power, what would it be: be invisible and spy on other
What is your greatest fear: losing your loved ones
What is your greatest hope you live by getting your hands on the World Cup trophy?
What are the main lessons you've learned in life: All dreams come true if we have the courage to pursue them. Enjoy the process, know that this takes time, and just be committed to doing your best each day.
How are you off the field: I am a very joyful and funny person.
Favourite Food: I like ˜Ghar ka khana' only (Homemade food). Especially chicken and my mother's chilli paneer.
My Favourite Book: Is is are you Can Win by Shiv Khera.
Favourite Pastime: I watch movies
Favourite Actor: Ranveer Singh
Best Friends in the team: I have many. Jemimah Rodrigues, in the state team it's Shivani Thakur, Sushma di (Sushma Verma) and Nikita Chauhan. Other than these, Inayat, Ravneet and Amanat. I always hang out with them whenever I am in town.
Which cricketer comes to your mind hearing these words?
Aggressive: Virat Kohli
Cool: MS Dhoni
Introvert: Mithali Raj
Foodie: Nikita Chauhan (Himachal team)
Style Icon: Veda Krishnamurthy