Anjum Chopra

Anjum Chopra
Full name	Anjum Chopra
Born	20 May 1977 New Delhi, India
Nationality	Indian
Role	Batter
Batting	Left-handed
Bowling	Right-arm medium
Teams	India, Delhi, Air India
Years active	1995–2012

Anjum Chopra (born 20 May 1977) is a former Indian women’s international cricketer and captain. One of the most influential figures in the history of Indian women’s cricket, she was among the earliest players to bring professionalism, leadership, and global recognition to the women’s game in India. Following her playing career, she became a cricket commentator, coach, sports consultant, and motivational speaker.

Early Life and Education

Anjum Chopra was born in New Delhi into a family with strong sporting roots. Her grandfather was an athlete and sports commentator, while her mother participated in motorsport rallies. She attended Delhi Public School, R.K. Puram, and later graduated from St. Stephen’s College, University of Delhi. She went on to complete an MBA from the FORE School of Management with a dual specialization in Marketing and Human Resources.

Before choosing cricket, Chopra actively competed in athletics, swimming, and basketball, representing Delhi at the state level in basketball.

International Career

Chopra made her One Day International debut on 12 February 1995 against New Zealand at the age of 17. Later that year, she made her Test debut against England at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. She quickly established herself as a dependable left-handed batter known for her temperament and ability to anchor innings.

Over her international career, she played 12 Test matches, 127 One Day Internationals, and 18 Twenty20 Internationals. She became the first Indian woman to score 1,000 runs in ODIs and was also the first Indian woman to play 100 ODIs.

Her performances in major tournaments included six World Cups (four ODI and two T20), where she consistently contributed as a senior batter. She was India’s highest run-scorer in the 2000 Women’s World Cup in New Zealand.

Captaincy and Leadership

Anjum Chopra was appointed captain of the Indian women’s cricket team in the early 2000s. Under her leadership, India achieved several milestones, including a 5–0 home series whitewash against England in 2002 and the team’s first overseas Test series win against South Africa.

Known for her tactical awareness and calm leadership, Chopra often guided a young and developing squad, helping lay the foundation for India’s rise in women’s cricket. She also served as vice-captain in multiple World Cups.

Domestic Career

In domestic cricket, Chopra represented Delhi and later Air India. She enjoyed significant success as a captain, leading Delhi to its first national championship title in 2012 and guiding Air India to multiple domestic triumphs earlier in her career.

Post-Retirement Career

After retiring from professional cricket, Anjum Chopra transitioned into several prominent roles. She became one of India’s first women cricket commentators to regularly cover men’s international and domestic matches. She also worked as a technical consultant with the South Africa women’s cricket team.

She authored the book Women’s Cricket World – A Journey from 1745–2013 and appeared in the sports docudrama Poor Cousins of Million Dollar Babies. Chopra has also participated in television reality shows and conducts leadership and motivational programs for corporate organizations.

Awards and Recognition

Anjum Chopra has received several honors for her contribution to Indian sport, including the Padma Shri (2014) and the Arjuna Award (2007). In 2016, she became the first Indian woman cricketer to receive honorary lifetime membership of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC).

Legacy and Impact

Widely regarded as a pioneer of Indian women’s cricket, Chopra’s influence extends beyond her playing statistics. She played a crucial role in pushing women’s cricket toward professionalism and mainstream recognition in India. Her leadership, advocacy, and continued presence in cricket discourse have made her a lasting figure in the sport’s evolution.