Women’s cricket has reached a new high after the Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian team clinched their maiden 50-over World Cup title earlier this year — ending a wait of more than four decades. The triumph came after a thrilling campaign where India stunned seven-time champions Australia in the semi-finals, thanks to Jemimah Rodrigues’ fighting unbeaten 127, before defeating South Africa by 52 runs in the final in Mumbai on November 2.
Inspired by that achievement, the Robin Singh Relations Cricket Academy (RSR) in Dubai has been celebrating the rise of women’s cricket in its own way — by letting its girls lead from the front. Over the past few weeks, the academy’s practice games have seen young players take charge, displaying both confidence and skill, embodying the same belief that powered India’s world-beating run.
Dreams of donning UAE colours
Seventeen-year-old Sarah Robinson Fernando is one of the brightest talents emerging from the RSR Academy setup. A commerce student in Grade 12, Sarah dreams of representing the UAE women’s cricket team and says her time at the academy has brought remarkable improvement in her game.
“There’s been overall improvement — my fitness, batting, and especially bowling,” Sarah says. “I started with zero knowledge of bowling, and now I’m confident about my line and length.”
Her development has also been marked by leadership opportunities. Recently, she captained the RSR Academy side in a friendly match against Cleopatra Academy’s under-14 team — her first outing as captain.
“It was my first time leading a team, and it was a great experience,” she recalls. “It was all about teamwork, and I’m glad my teammates played so well and proved themselves.”
Sarah admits that the Indian team’s World Cup-winning performance has been a huge source of motivation.
“The semi-final was amazing — Harmanpreet’s leadership, Amanjot’s catch, and Jemimah’s innings were all incredible. What I learned from them is simple: never give up.”
All-rounder Amanjot Kaur ran in to take the catch of South African skipper Laura Wolvaardt, who was threatening to take the match away from India. The 25-year-old held on to the ball on her third attempt at deep midwicket, bringing huge relief to both fans and teammates. That breakthrough effectively sealed South Africa’s fate, and India romped home comfortably soon after.
Early beginnings and big dreams
At just 10 years old, Tia, a Grade 6 student of GEMS Metropole School, Al Waha, is already following a similar path of passion and perseverance. Training at RSR for the last couple of months, she has shown significant growth as an all-rounder.
“Before, I couldn’t even hit one shot. Now I can hit some,” she says with a smile.
Her proudest moment came recently when she led the academy’s under-11 team to its first-ever victory.
“I was very happy — I still am — because I got to bring home our first win,” she says. “I want to play for the Indian women’s team one day.”
Parents’ pride and progress
For parents, the growth of their daughters has been as fulfilling as the results on the field. Sarah’s father, Robinson, says the RSR environment has helped his daughter build both confidence and discipline.
“The drills and structured sessions have boosted her morale,” he says. “Her stamina, strength, and overall attitude toward the game have improved a lot.”
A platform for empowerment
Founded by former India all-rounder Robin Singh, the academy continues to play a key role in shaping future stars — creating a pathway for young girls to pursue their cricketing ambitions. From Sarah’s developing bowling rhythm to Tia’s fearless batting, the message is clear — women’s cricket is thriving, and the next generation is ready to take guard. Their journey mirrors the spirit of India’s World Cup champions: believe, persevere, and never give up.