Guwahati’s own Rajni Basnet Kalita has etched her name in the annals of sports history, becoming the first referee from Assam to officiate at an international cricket event. This momentous occasion unfolded on December 28, as Kalita took charge as the match referee for the One Day International (ODI) series opener between India Women and Australia Women at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
Kalita, the wife of renowned international pitch curator Mukut Kalita, proudly hails from Guwahati’s Boragaon area. Her appointment as the match referee for this high-profile encounter not only marks a personal milestone but also a historic feat for Assam in the realm of international sports officiation.
This achievement follows her earlier role as one of the match referees during the inaugural Women’s Premier League (WPL), where she showcased her expertise and commitment to fair play.
In the ongoing ODI clash, India set a formidable target of 282 runs for the loss of eight wickets in their allotted 50 overs. Jemimah Rodrigues led the charge for the Indian team with an impressive knock of 82 runs off 77 deliveries, including seven boundaries. Yastika Bhatia contributed significantly with 49 runs, providing a solid foundation for the team. Notably, Pooja Vastrakar played a pivotal role as the tailender, scoring a crucial 62 runs off 46 balls, adorned with seven fours and two sixes.
Kalita’s journey to the international stage reflects not only her personal dedication and passion for the sport but also highlights the growing presence of officials from diverse regions in cricket’s global landscape. As the first Assamese referee to officiate in an international cricket match, she has become an inspiring figure for aspiring officials in the region.
Her role in the Women’s Premier League and now at the international level underscores the importance of recognizing and nurturing talent in cricket officiation. Kalita’s success contributes to breaking barriers and promoting inclusivity in a traditionally male-dominated field.
As the cricketing world applauds Rajni Basnet Kalita’s historic achievement, it serves as a reminder that talent knows no geographical boundaries. Her journey sets a precedent for aspiring referees from Assam and beyond, encouraging them to pursue their passion for cricket officiation with determination and perseverance. The spotlight on Kalita’s accomplishment is not just a celebration of an individual achievement but a stride towards a more diverse and inclusive future for cricket officiating.
