Assam Cricketers Uma Chetry and Jintimani Kalita Selected for India-A Tour

Dispur, India Aug 27, 2026 ALN: Assam cricketers, Uma Chetry and Jintimani Kalita, have been selected to the India-A squads for the upcoming Australia-A women’s tour of India, the Assam Cricket Association (ACA) announced on Thursday. This selection marks a significant milestone in the careers of both players, showcasing their talent and hard work in the competitive landscape of Indian women's cricket.

The women’s selection committee revealed the India-A squads for the tour, which will feature three T20 matches, three One-Day matches, and a multi-day fixture against Australia A. The inclusion of these matches is part of a broader strategy by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to enhance the performance of its women’s teams by providing them with more exposure to international cricket.

Wicketkeeper-batter Uma Chetry has been selected for both the T20 and one-day squads, while all-rounder Jintimani Kalita has been named in all three squads — T20, one-day, and multi-day. This comprehensive selection reflects the players' versatility and their ability to contribute in various formats of the game, which is increasingly important in modern cricket.

The tour will commence with the three-match T20 series in New Chandigarh from September 12 to 17, followed by three one-day matches at the PCA Stadium, Mohali, from September 20 to 25. The T20 format, known for its fast-paced and thrilling nature, will offer both players an opportunity to showcase their skills against a formidable opponent in Australia A, a team known for producing high-quality cricketers.

The tour will conclude with the multi-day fixture in Dharamshala from September 29 to October 2. This match will test the players' endurance and tactical acumen, as multi-day games require a different approach compared to shorter formats. The scenic backdrop of Dharamshala, with its high altitude and picturesque mountains, will add to the experience, but it also presents unique challenges in terms of playing conditions.

In a statement, ACA congratulated Uma Chetry and Jintimani Kalita on their selection and extended its best wishes to the players as they represent India A in the series against Australia A. The ACA's support underscores the growing recognition of women's cricket in the region and the association's commitment to nurturing local talent.

The selection of Chetry and Kalita is particularly significant in the context of women's cricket in India, which has been gaining momentum in recent years. The Indian women's team has made substantial progress on the international stage, highlighted by their performances in various ICC tournaments and bilateral series. The BCCI has been proactive in promoting women's cricket, with initiatives aimed at improving facilities, increasing sponsorship, and providing more competitive opportunities.

Moreover, the Australia A tour is an important step for the players to gain experience against a strong cricketing nation. Australia has a rich history in women's cricket, boasting world-class players and a robust domestic structure. Competing against such teams will not only enhance Chetry's and Kalita's skills but also help them understand the nuances of international cricket.

For Uma Chetry, this selection builds on her previous performances in domestic cricket, where she has consistently demonstrated her capabilities as a wicketkeeper-batter. Her role in the team will be crucial, especially in T20 matches where quick scoring and effective wicketkeeping can change the course of the game.

On the other hand, Jintimani Kalita's inclusion in all three formats highlights her all-round abilities, making her an asset to the team. Her performance with both bat and ball will be pivotal in providing balance to the squad. As an all-rounder, she will be expected to contribute significantly in both batting and bowling departments, which is essential in a format that often requires players to adapt quickly to different situations.

The impact of this tour extends beyond individual careers; it reflects the growing interest in women's cricket in Assam and the Northeast region of India. The success of local players on national and international platforms can inspire younger generations to take up the sport, thereby contributing to the development of cricket in the region. Grassroots programs and academies can benefit from such role models, encouraging more girls to participate in sports.

As the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the outcomes of the upcoming series, the performances of Uma Chetry and Jintimani Kalita will be closely watched. Their journey through this tour could potentially pave the way for further opportunities within the national team setup, especially as the Indian women's team prepares for future international competitions, including the ICC Women's World Cup and other bilateral series.