Three Sisters from Wayanad Poised to Make History with UAE National Cricket Team
Kalpetta (Wayanad): In an inspiring and historic development, three sisters from Sultan Bathery in Wayanad, Kerala, are set to etch their names in sports history as they prepare to play together for the UAE national cricket team in the prestigious Asia Cup Women’s T20 Cricket Tournament.
The sisters—Rithika Rajith, Rinitha Rajith, and Rishitha Rajith—have grown up together in the same household and will be proudly donning the UAE national colors in the esteemed tournament. Despite having been part of the UAE national team for the past three years, this will be the first time the trio will play together in an international competition.
The Rajith sisters originally hail from Sultan Bathery, a picturesque town in Wayanad district, known for its scenic beauty and vibrant culture. Their athletic journey began with a strong foundation in badminton, a sport in which they excelled before shifting their focus to cricket. Their transition from badminton to cricket was a result of a profound change in their sports trajectory following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Prior to their cricketing endeavors, the sisters were also part of the UAE national basketball team, showcasing their versatility and athletic prowess across various sports disciplines. Their journey into cricket was marked by their selection for the UAE national team, and now, they are set to make their debut together in the Asia Cup Women’s T20 Cricket Tournament.
Their involvement in cricket is deeply rooted in their family background. The sisters’ father, Rajith Rajith, a former player for the Wayanad district team in the 1980s, played a pivotal role in nurturing their sporting talents. Under his guidance, the sisters transitioned from badminton to cricket, reflecting their family’s strong sports legacy. Rinitha and Rishitha had previously represented the U-11 Kozhikode basketball team in 2016, further emphasizing their diverse sporting achievements.
Currently, Rithika Rajith works as an HR officer for a private company while continuing her active involvement in sports. She is not only a certified umpire by the Badminton World Federation but also holds an A-level coaching certification from the International Cricket Council. Her multifaceted expertise in both badminton and cricket underscores her commitment to sports and her dedication to nurturing talent across different sporting arenas.
Rinitha Rajith, who has recently completed her secondary education, is preparing to embark on a new academic journey in computer engineering. Her academic aspirations are complemented by her cricketing achievements, highlighting her ability to balance her studies with her sports career. Rishitha Rajith, a Plus 1 student, continues to pursue her education while developing her cricketing skills, reflecting her dedication and passion for the sport.
The inclusion of Rithika, Rinitha, and Rishitha in the UAE national cricket team is a momentous achievement, not only for the sisters but also for their hometown of Sultan Bathery and the state of Kerala. Their participation in the Asia Cup Women’s T20 Cricket Tournament is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the support of their family and community.
The upcoming tournament will see the sisters facing teams from Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan, and Nepal on the 19th, 21st, and 23rd of the month. This milestone event marks a significant moment in their sporting careers, as they aim to showcase their talents on an international stage and make a lasting impact in the world of cricket.