Veda Krishnamurthy – From Small‑Town Street Cricket to International Stardom
Veda Krishnamurthy’s retirement at age 32 marks the end of a remarkable international cricket career. From playing street cricket in Karnataka to representing India on the world stage, she became known for her explosive batting, sharp fielding, and unwavering spirit. Her sudden retirement announcement on 25 July 2025 surprised fans and marked a poignant end to a significant chapter in women’s cricket.
Early Life & Foundation
Born: 16 October 1992, Kadur, Karnataka
Family: Youngest of four; father SG Krishnamurthy operated a cable business in a small town.
Karate to Cricket: Earned a black belt in karate at age 12, crediting it for her strength and explosive playing style.
Formal Cricket Training: At age 13, she moved to Bengaluru to train at Karnataka Institute of Cricket under coach Irfan Sait, with support from her sister Vatsala who helped her settle in the city.
Domestic Rising Star
Breakthrough at 13: Began playing senior domestic cricket for Karnataka due to exceptional fielding—her athleticism drawn from karate helped her excel.
Under‑19 Captaincy: Led Karnataka U‑19 to multiple zonal titles. Later joined Railways before returning to Karnataka; awarded Vijaya Karnataka Sportsperson of the Year (2017).
WPL 2024: Picked by Gujarat Giants in the inaugural WPL auction in December 2023 for ₹30 lakh; featured in 4 matches in 2024 edition.
International Debut & Rise
ODI debut: 30 June 2011 vs England at Derby—scored a composed 51 on debut at age 18.
T20I debut: Just a week earlier, on 23 June 2011 vs Australia in Billericay.
Mature Comeback: Dropped after early low scores; returned in 2015 against New Zealand, immediately making an impact with a half-century and regaining her place in the side.
Career Highlights & Stats
International Numbers (till retirement):
- WODIs: 48 matches, 829 runs, average 25.90, 8 fifties, high 71.
- WT20Is: 76 matches, 875 runs, average 18.61, best 57*; scored her highest T20I of 57* vs West Indies in series sweep.
Key Performances:
2017 Women’s World Cup: Scored a blistering 70 from 45 balls against New Zealand, helping India reach the semi-finals.
WBBL Experience: Signed by Hobart Hurricanes for WBBL Season 3, becoming one of only three Indian women to play in the league.
Famous for her inside-out straights and high-energy fielding, often known as a “game-changer” in the middle overs.
Why Did She Retire?
On 25 July 2025, Veda announced retirement from international cricket at 32, shocking fans and peers alike.
She cited emotional fatigue, personal loss during COVID (loss of mother and sister), and lack of new direction as core reasons.
Though retiring internationally, she stated she plans to remain associated with cricket—perhaps in mentorship, commentary, or coaching roles.
Challenges & Resilience
Personal Tragedy: Lost her mother and sister to COVID-19 in 2021; struggled with grief while also losing her central contract as selection policies shifted.
Lack of Support: Fans and former players—including Lisa Sthalekar—criticized the BCCI for poor communication and lack of empathy during her personal crisis.
Career Rollercoaster: Went through prolonged form slumps, domestic rotations, and team omissions—but always returned with fight and purpose.
Legacy & Impact
Fielding Excellence: Her athleticism and energy raised the bar in women’s cricket fielding standards in India.
Inspirational Life Path: From a small town and street cricket beginnings to international cricket—Veda inspired countless girls from Tier‑2 towns.
Trailblazer: Third Indian to play in WBBL and an early WPL pick; helped broaden opportunities for women through franchise leagues.
Positive Influence: Known for positivity in the dressing room and supporting teammates—often called the “heart of the team”.
Summary & Closing Thoughts
Veda Krishnamurthy leaves the Indian women’s cricket team as a symbol of grit, flair, and emotion. Her journey—from karate training in Kadur to lighting up world cricket—demonstrates persistence, resilience, and talent rarely seen. Though her international career concludes, her influence on Indian women’s cricket is everlasting.
Her decision to retire now, while fresh in memory, offers a pivot—toward mentorship, commentary, and nurturing the next generation. As fans bid goodbye to her playing era, her story continues to shine as an inspirational tale of passion, challenges, triumphs, and unbreakable spirit.