Monika Mania: Run machine reels off four tons in five innings

New Delhi: Every morning, Monika wakes up early to train and spends hours on the pitch striving to become her best. Her hard work is evident in every match she plays, especially in the recent DDCA Women’s T20 League 2026 where she scored four centuries in the five matches she played.

“I wanted to take my team to the top, help them win, and score as much as possible,” said Monica.

With a dedicated and determined mindset to win matches, the all-rounder began the league by scoring an unbeaten 130 off just 43 balls against Gemini Cricket Club. She hit 23 fours and four sixes while recording one of the highest scores of her career and making the innings special.

The match against Mount Cricket Club yielded 117 off 64 balls (18x4s, 2x6s) and it was followed by a century (100) against Neo Sports Cricket Club. That innings featured 13 fours and three sixes. Monika continued the remarkable run of form in her fourth match of the league with a knock of 115 (15x4s, 2x6s) against Century Cricket Club.

Becoming a cricketer is her 'only ambition'. The belief in pursuing the sport professionally came through encouragement from seniors who helped her realise that a successful career in cricket was possible for a woman, if backed by consistency and dedication.

The 22-year-old all-rounder started playing cricket with her brothers using a tennis ball. Her talent was recognised nearly four years ago during a match in Rohini by former India international Vijay Dahiya, who continues to mentor her as coach. Under his guidance at Goswami Ganesh Dutt Cricket Club, Monika trains alongside senior players and boys, constantly challenging herself to meet the standards set on the field.

Monika represented the Central Delhi Queens in Women's DPL last year

“Vijay Sir coaches with a lot of patience and calmness, just like the way you would with a child,” said Monika crediting his support for her development as a cricketer.

Naveen Dahiya, Vijay Dahiya's brother, has also played a key role in shaping her game and has high expectations from her.

“I had expected her to score a hundred in the fifth match as well,” he said, not as a critic, but as one who has confidence in her abilities.

Over the years, her coaches have watched her game develop significantly.

“The reach of her shots has increased, and I believe her running between the wickets has to be the best in Delhi. She is a great fielder, enjoys playing the game, and never takes pressure,” he added.

In her fifth and final DDCA Women’s T20 League 2026 match, Monika scored 32 off 17 balls, including six boundaries and then also contributed with the ball, taking two wickets for 35 runs in her four overs. Her all-round performance earned her the Fighter of the Match award.

“I wish to be the best cricket player.”

Last year, Monika earned a place in the Central Delhi Queens' squad during the Women’s Delhi Premier League. This year, with four centuries to her name, she awaits her next opportunity in the tournament that begins in July 31.

Tags : Monika, Cricket, Delhi Premier League, Vijay Dahiya, Delhi, Women