Rahila Firdous' journey: Engineering degree, keeping gloves & Dhoni as idol | EXCLUSIVE
Bhopal-born cricketer Rahila Firdous, inspired by Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni, has earned an engineering degree while honing her cricket skills. After impressive domestic performances, she was picked by Mumbai Indians for Rs 10 lakh in the WPL auction, a significant career leap. Rahila is eager to learn from skipper Harmanpreet Kaur and leverage the WPL platform for growth.
Rahila Firdous (Pic credit: Mumbai Indians)
NEW DELHI: Rahila Firdous has already ticked off several milestones in her young career. From playing elegant cover drives inspired by Virat Kohli to studying MS Dhoni’s videos to sharpen her wicketkeeping skills, the Bhopal-born cricketer has shaped her game by learning from the very best.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!Even before her rise on the cricket field, she also fulfilled a cherished family dream by earning an engineering degree, completing her B.Tech while continuing to chase her passion for cricket. For Rahila, balancing textbooks and training sessions became a way of life, with academics and sport progressing hand in hand.
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After delivering a series of impressive performances for Madhya Pradesh on the domestic circuit, Rahila is now poised to take a big leap in her career. The talented wicketkeeper has been picked up by Mumbai Indians for Rs 10 lakh at the Women’s Premier League auction, earning her first opportunity to feature in the marquee tournament.Known for her sharp work behind the stumps and her ability to contribute valuable runs down the order, Rahila has also showcased her leadership qualities by captaining Madhya Pradesh. She credits much of her approach to the influence of Dhoni and now looks forward to learning under Mumbai Indians skipper
Harmanpreet Kaur
.Under Harmanpreet’s leadership, Mumbai Indians have lifted the WPL title twice, in 2023 and 2025.
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Do you think the Women's Premier League provides a significant opportunity for domestic players?
Absolutely, it's a game-changer for careersSomewhat, it has potential but may not suit everyoneNot really, I don't see much impact
"I admire Virat Kohli for his impact and MS Dhoni for his calm leadership and decision-making.
I really like MS Dhoni and take lessons from his keeping skills. T20 cricket is very fast and requires quick decisions. Captaincy experience has helped me guide bowlers, manage the field, and handle leadership responsibilities," Rahila told TimesofIndia.com in an exclusive interview."It’s a huge opportunity to play under Harman didi (Harmanpreet Kaur). I admire her leadership and batting a lot," she added."Playing under her will help me learn many aspects of leadership.