Helping to shape the future of cricket

We are delighted to hear that Nikki Chaudhuri StA'16 has been named by the ECB among 53 women shaping the future of cricket.

To coincide with the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup and to commemorate 53 years since England Women won the inaugural Women’s World Cup, the ECB has unveiled 53 purple seats at Edgbaston cricket ground to honour ‘The 53’.

The seats, which will remain in place for the duration of the tournament, recognise 53 women shaping the future of cricket, illustrating the breadth, diversity and richness of the cricket community today.

Nikki, the daughter of Worth’s Head of Cricket Raj Chaudhuri, played junior cricket for Sussex and 1st XI cricket at the School, and represented Surrey whilst at school and after leaving, as well as Worcestershire, and is now a cricket commentator and presenter.

In an interview about being named in ‘The 53’ on the ECB website, Nikki said: “Cricket has played a fundamental role in shaping who I am, teaching me how to handle both the highest highs and the lowest lows, manage pressure and build resilience. It’s ironic, but in many ways, life mirrors a Test match – it teaches you to navigate each session as it comes, adapting along the way.

“My journey has since evolved into broadcasting, a path I didn’t even know was possible for someone who hadn’t played international cricket. After my first experience at Hove, covering Sussex v New Zealand, I knew this was something I wanted to pursue.

“I now work as a freelance broadcaster, including with the BBC, and have covered major events from ICC tournaments, IPL, WPL, domestic cricket and several franchise T20s too. I’ve had the privilege of interviewing players like Surya Kumar Yadav and sharing a commentary box with Michael Clarke, Waqar Younis and Dinesh Karthik, experiences that continue to push me to improve every day and remind me how incredible it is to learn the game through their eyes.

“I’m particularly proud to be one of the few South Asian women in cricket media and I’m driven to show that there are opportunities in cricket beyond playing. There is a place for you, beyond that white line lies endless opportunities to work in a sport you love. Cricket has taught me that if you are loyal to the game, show respect and give it your all, it will reward you.”

Main picture used courtesy of ECB