Lisa Sthalekar is a known face when we see her offering expert opinions during the IPL, or other big leagues and even in international tournaments. But she is much more than that. A former cricketer who represented Australia at the highest level, she was recently inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame. While Jacques Kallis' induction stole the limelight, Lisa's story is one of inspiration.??
But her journey in life did not begin in the backyards of Australia. In fact it started in Pune, India. Yes, she is Indian by birth. Lisa's biological parents could not support her so they left her at an orphanage. It was from there that her life changed. In fact her real name was Laila.?
A couple from USA, were visiting to adopt a son, but it did not pan out. They took one look at her and soon the formalities were completed to take her back with them to the states. She was just 3 weeks old when she went to USA.?
Eventually, the couple settled in Sydney and that is where Lisa grew up. And that was where her cricketing journey began.?
After turning out for New South Wales, Lisa began rising up the ranks as the 21st century dawned upon the world and in 2001, finally made her first international appearance for Australia.?
She shone as an all-rounder and between 2001 and 2013 represented Australia in 187 games across formats. With nearly 4000 runs and over 200 wickets, Lisa was the star of the show.?
Her consistent performances in a glittering career for the Aussies left a legacy hard to fill. It earned her the right to be inducted into the Hall of Fame this year. A journey that started in a distant land as a baby, is now undergoing new experiences as the years go by.????
Lisa is an inspiration to many, she has broken stereotypes and barriers to get where she is and her life is a lesson of going past the boundary.?