Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (AM)

Mangaluru, Apr 2: Oman has thousands of Mangalureans who have left their homes in an endeavour to find better opportunities. Among the scores of expatriates living there, the determination and hard work of one teenage girl stands out, not only for her achievement, but also because it highlights victory against odds in a non-native country.

Meet 17-year-old Priyanka Edna Mendonca, the first woman player from Mangaluru to be a part of Oman women's cricket team and play in the UAE International Women's T20 Cup 2016. A significant achievement indeed, considering that Oman is not among the top cricket-playing countries of the world.

Priyanka was officially part of the team playing international cricket after she was included in the squad to GCC Women’s T20 Championship. She has been part of the team that became the runners-up in Frendi Cup 2016 and Girls U-19 inter-school cricket tournament. She also hit an unbeaten half century against Indian School Darsait in the U-19 tournament showing her versatility.

With the game being majorly played by the male expatriates, it is indeed a pride for Mangalureans that a young girl has gone on to achieve what others only dream of.

Priyanka's passions extend beyond cricket too. Daughter of Edward and Philomena Mendonca, Priyanka is a multi-faceted talent who has earned much appreciation and prizes for her dancing and compering skills too. She loves art, trekking, swimming, various sports and games and also music. She is a student of Indian School Al Gubra (ISG) and is presently pursuing her Grade XII in commerce.

Priyanka is thankful to her parents, mentors and friends for their support which has led to success. Priyanka developed passion for cricket since her early childhood pursued to excel with hard work.

Priyanka's story comes along to restore faith in the triumphs of hard work. She has made the Indian expatriates proud by her selection to the national team of Oman.