The “girls in blue,” as the Indian women cricketers are fondly called, have won more than just a World Cup — their triumph carries significance far beyond the cricket field. The victory has reignited hope and inspiration for many, including Anaya Bangar, a trans woman and daughter of former India cricketer Sanjay Bangar. Anaya dreams of one day playing for India’s women’s team.

For Anaya, her gender transition — from Aryan to Anaya — feels even more meaningful now, as women’s cricket finds itself in the brightest spotlight it has ever seen. Meeting this reporter at the Cricket Club of India (CCI) grounds at Brabourne Stadium, Anaya reflected on her emotions: “This is a bittersweet moment for me,” she said. “It’s like scoring a century but losing the match.”