Jhulan Goswami

If you've grown up in this generation, chances are that you've at least once stumbled upon the name Jhulan Nishit Goswami. Fastest bowler in the women's circuit at the peak of her career, Goswami now sits atop the leading wicket-takers' list in ODI history. Yes, an Indian pacer.

From being a ball girl in the '97 World Cup final to overtaking her idol Cathryn Fitzpatrick, its been glorious career spanning over 15 years at the highest level. Smitten by the cricket bug, the lanky teenager travelled two hours in a crowded local for practice in Kolkata before catching up with studies back in her hometown Chakdaha, thrice a week. Her tall frame convinced her coach that she's make a fearsome pacer and, once the parents were roped in, there's been no looking back ever since.

Having started off a pure bowler, Goswami slowly but steadily earned the reputation of India's leading allrounder with some handy contributions with the bat lower down the order. Along with Mithali Raj, Goswami put together a world record seventh-wicket partnership worth 157 against the hosts at Taunton in 2002. Four years down the line, her career-best 10-wicket haul at the same venue propelled India to a historic Test series win on foreign soil.

Goswami bagged the ICC Women's Cricketer of the Year award in 2007 and captaincy came calling soon after, though she has enjoyed moderate success rate. She had another feather added to her cap when the Government of India conferred her with the prestigious Arjuna Award in 2010, and the Padma Shri two years later.

Standing at 5'11”, she can be very intimidating. But her aggression comes to the fore only on field. Sledging isn't her idea of fierceness. An unwavering line and length remain the most potent weapon in her repertoire. Those who have seen her from close quarters vouch for the fact that her dedication towards the game, work ethic and willingness to learn is second to none.