'I want to help others to do well in sports': Kranti Goud

BHOPAL: Fresh off India’s ICC Women’s World Cup triumph, 22-year-old Kranti Goud arrived in Bhopal on Thursday, her eyes filled with pride and determination. In an exclusive chat with TOI, Kranti spoke about her meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, her family’s struggles and her dreams for the future.

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Excerpts from the interview:What did Prime Minister Narendra Modi say to you during your meeting?He spoke a lot about my bowling. When I told him that my family is a big fan of his, he promised to meet them soon. Meeting him was one of the biggest moments of my life.You’ve often spoken about your father. What do you want people to know about the challenges he faced?I want to see my father wear his police uniform again, without fear. He was dismissed from his job in 2012, and I want his honour to be restored. He should retire with dignity. This is very important to me and my family’s pride.Winning the World Cup at just 22 is a huge achievement. What comes next for you?This is just the beginning. I want to keep playing, improving and winning more World Cups for my country.

My focus is on giving my best every time I step onto the field.Many athletes from smaller towns are making India proud on the global stage. What do you think about that?Where you come from doesn’t matter. What matters is your hard work and performance. If you keep working hard and perform, success will find you.You’ve faced your share of struggles. Do you plan to help others who dream like you did?Yes, absolutely. In my village Ghuwara, I make it a point to support anyone who wants to play sports. I’ve seen a lot of difficult days myself and I’ll always help players who need encouragement or support.