Arjuna puts Anjum on cloud nine

Anjum Chopra, the star Indian women’s cricketer, is on a high these days as she will be receiving the prestigious Arjuna Awards for sporting excellence on August 29, reports Deepika Sharma.

Anjum Chopra, the star Indian women’s cricketer, is on a high these days. It’s probably the best moment of her life. Dressed in an elegant black top and white pants at a book release function on Thursday evening, Chopra seemed in high spirits. And why not — she will be receiving the prestigious Arjuna Awards for sporting excellence on August 29 and the tall cricketer cannot wait for that day to arrive.

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She expressed her happiness in just one word ‘elated’ and blushed when people congratulated her for being so brilliant with the bat and being a great ambassador of women’s cricket. “I am elated. I am receiving this award as a woman cricketer, which means that this could be a step towards the progress of women’s game in the country,” said Anjum. “I can’t wait to enter that hall and receive the award from President Pratibha Patil,” she said excitedly. “It is the biggest honour for me, especially when it comes from the government.

“I am glad that women’s cricket is being recognised in a country that is obsessed with men’s game.”

The former India skipper, whose family supported her right through, said her folks were extremely proud of her. “Obviously my parents are really happy. The mood at home is nothing less than festive. It is really a dream come true for them,” said Chopra with her head held high.
The 30-year-old, who made her Test and ODI debut in 1995, said that even after getting married, her focus had not shifted and she wants to continue playing for a long time. “I will keep playing till the selectors want me to,” she said. “I’m focussed and ready to perform for my country.”