Bhavika Ahire: A Rising Cricket Star from Priyadarshani School

Some dreams take flight at a young age, nurtured by passion, discipline, and the right support system. Bhavika Ahire’s journey from playing tennis cricket as a toddler to representing India in the U-19 Women’s Cricket Team is an inspiring testament to dedication and perseverance. With a bat in her hand since the age of three, she grew up honing her skills, overcoming challenges, and setting new records. Priyadarshani School played a crucial role in supporting her journey, ensuring she excelled in both academics and sports.

Bhavika’s love for cricket started early, playing with her father during holidays and with friends whenever she could. By the 4th standard, she joined a professional cricket academy in Pune, where her coach, who has been with her since childhood, continues to train and support her. Priyadarshani School’s commitment to excelling academically as well as in sports helped Bhavika strike the perfect balance between her education and her cricket career.

Her first major breakthrough came in 2022 when she participated in the U-15 trials. Scoring an unbeaten 113 runs against Baroda, Gujarat, she was named captain of Maharashtra’s U-15 team. In her debut match, she delivered an impressive 129 runs, proving her capabilities and further establishing herself with strong performances against Pondicherry and Chhattisgarh and many more such states.

Bhavika continued to rise through the ranks, excelling in the ZCA Premier League, where she scored the highest runs. Her journey progressed with the Challengers Trophy, where she delivered a striking 88 runs in 60 balls. Following this, she was selected for the Triangular Series against South Africa at Gahunje Stadium, Pune. 

Her consistent performances eventually led to her selection for the Indian U-19 Women’s Cricket Team. Moving up to the U-19 State Cricket Team, she made a remarkable debut with 118 runs against Meghalaya, including her fastest century in just 69 balls. This performance earned her a place at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), a stepping stone to greater opportunities.

Success is never achieved alone, and Bhavika’s journey was fueled by the unwavering support of her family, school, and coaching mentors. Her father’s passion for cricket inspired her to take up the sport, while her mother ensured she maintained a healthy lifestyle and disciplined routine despite her demanding schedule.

As one of the best CBSE schools in Pune, Priyadarshani School, Indrayani Nagar CBSE, played a pivotal role in shaping Bhavika’s academic and sports career. The school, under the guidance of Principal Dr. Gaitri Jadhav and Trustee Dr. Rajendra Singh, ensured that Bhavika received the necessary academic support. Teachers took extra classes and helped her catch up on missed lessons whenever she was away for matches. “My teachers were very supportive; they always helped me balance my studies and cricket,” she says.

Bhavika acknowledges the growing recognition of women’s cricket in India. “Earlier, it was a stereotype that only boys were supported for such activities, but now things are changing. The BCCI treats everyone equally and respects talent,” she shares. Her journey stands as proof that dedication, perseverance, and talent can break barriers and create new opportunities.

From playing on local grounds to making a name for herself on the international stage, Bhavika Ahire’s journey is an inspiration to aspiring young athletes. With over 350 matches played and achievements that speak for themselves, she continues to make Priyadarshani School proud.

Bhavika's story serves as an encouragement for every student to dream big, work hard and make their mark in the world!

You can catch her interview: https://youtu.be/Vd22rtNhxvM?si=J4Z9vnD8FK8H-Pz3

See her reel: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DG2GY7tKvoS/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

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