2 hrs ago
Shikha Pandey Credits Recovery Science For Cricket Longevity
Shikha Pandey is a 37-year-old cricketer who still plays as a fast-medium bowler.
She says recovery helps her body stay ready for matches.
Her routine includes ice baths, special compression boots, stretching and massages.
She also studies pitches before tournaments so she knows which deliveries to practice.
In the Caribbean, she prepares for slower pitches with slower balls and yorkers.
Playing difficult matches in different countries has helped her gain experience.
She says having less stress and good teammates also makes a difference.
Pandey believes hard work can make up for not being naturally gifted.
She wants young girls to feel inspired when they watch her play.
Shikha Pandey, 37, credits compression boots, ice baths, stretching and massages for sustaining her pace-bowling career.
The former India player says understanding her body, reducing stress and receiving support from Trinbago Knight Riders have helped her remain fit.
She prepares for slower Caribbean pitches by studying conditions and practicing slower balls, yorkers and other adaptable deliveries.
Pandey says experience in high-pressure leagues helps her handle difficult bowling phases and build confidence for future challenges.
She hopes her hard work and international cricket career inspire more girls to take up the sport.
- Who
- Shikha Pandey, a 37-year-old Indian cricketer and former Indian Air Force squadron leader.
- What
- Pandey discussed the recovery methods, preparation and experience helping her continue playing competitive cricket.
- Where
- She spoke while playing for Trinbago Knight Riders in the Caribbean, after also playing in leagues in Australia and New Zealand.
- When
- The interview took place during the 2026 Women’s Caribbean Premier League; she said she last played for India at the 2023 Women’s T20 World Cup.
- Why
- She uses recovery equipment, fitness work, pitch research and experience to maintain her performance and extend her career.
Key facts
- Age
- 37
- Current team
- Trinbago Knight Riders
- Current competition
- 2026 Women’s Caribbean Premier League
- Wickets
- Five wickets in the 2026 Women’s Caribbean Premier League so far
- Recovery methods
- Compression boots, ice baths, mobility work, stretching and massages
- Previous India appearance
- 2023 Women’s T20 World Cup
- Other leagues mentioned
- Women’s Big Bash League and Super Smash
Quotes
Shikha Pandey
Indian cricketer and retired Indian Air Force squadron leader
“Okay. I'll be a science geek now! I have my own compression boots that I travel with and spend a lot of time on mobility and stretches. We've been very fortunate. We have the ice baths that are available. Medium pacers literally thrive on ice baths and are alive because of ice baths.”
thehansindia.com
“I guess I'm someone who likes to meticulously prep for any tournament that I'm going to be playing at.”
thehansindia.com










