The Unstoppable Duo of Bhutan Women’s Cricket
Victor Gurung, Media and Technical lead Consultant of the Bhutan Olympic Committee, recently sat down with Dechen Wangmo and Anju Gurung for an insightful interview about their incredible friendship, passion for cricket, and the running culture that has become a cornerstone of their fitness journey.
It all began in a school field, where two curious teenagers—13-year-old Dechen and 12-year-old Anju—first discovered cricket. Back then, the women’s cricket in Bhutan was in its infancy, more of an oddity than a serious pursuit. But for these two, it was love at first sight. That simple introduction to the bat and ball ignited a spark that grew into an enduring partnership and a shared dream.
Their story goes far beyond cricket. It’s a tale of grit, teamwork, and a friendship so strong that it’s become the glue holding their incredible journey together—both on the field and in life.
Running Together, Winning Together
Their friendship is the kind that makes you believe in fate—two girls from different districts brought together by cricket, only to discover they shared not just a passion for the game but a relentless drive for fitness. From endless hours of training to daily runs that keep them sharp, Dechen and Anju have turned their bond into a powerhouse partnership, proving that with the right teammate, even the toughest challenges feel like a breeze.
Dechen Wangmo, now 31, first picked up a cricket bat at the age of 13. Initially a football player for her school, she was captivated by the sight of a cricket match. The allure of the sport and its unique equipment drew her in, and she soon swapped her football cleats for cricket pads.
Anju Gurung, now 30, began her cricket journey at the age of 12 when her school introduced cricket as part of a grassroots development program. Her natural curiosity led her to join the coaching sessions, where she quickly adapted to the sport.
Their paths crossed for the first time in 2007 at Bhutan’s national coaching camp. Dechen and Anju came from different districts, strangers with only one thing in common—a love for cricket. But as they trained together, their shared passion turned into a bond that would stand the test of time. That same year, they were selected for Bhutan’s U19 Women’s Cricket Team, marking the beginning of an unforgettable journey.
In 2008, Dechen and Anju represented Bhutan on the international stage for the first time. The world of women’s cricket in Bhutan was just beginning to take shape, and the Bhutan Cricket Council Board (BCCB) was tirelessly working to promote the sport. Amidst this burgeoning movement, Dechen and Anju quickly became the faces of Bhutanese cricket.
Dechen, a sharp and agile wicketkeeper-batter, became known for her composure in high-pressure situations. Anju, a pace bowler and all-rounder, brought an intensity to the game that often left opponents scrambling. Together, they became a formidable duo, leading their team with skill and determination.
Their achievements are the stuff of dreams. Dechen captained the national team in several international tournaments, delivering match-winning performances that solidified her reputation as a finisher. Anju broke barriers by becoming the first Bhutanese player to compete in the prestigious FairBreak League, playing alongside cricketing legends in Hong Kong and Dubai.
While talent and teamwork were integral to their success, the duo attributes their longevity in the sport to one crucial factor: fitness. “Running is our lifeline,” Dechen says with a smile. “Even when there are no training camps, we run. It keeps our stamina and focus intact.”
For Anju, fitness is about more than just staying in shape—it’s about staying in the game. “Our commitment to fitness has kept us going, even as we’ve entered our thirties. It’s what fuels our passion and helps us inspire the next generation.”
As they look back on their journey, Dechen and Anju’s faces light up with fond memories. They cherish the intense energy of international tournaments, the thrill of victory, and the deep camaraderie that made their team feel like family.
For Dechen, the absence of her early teammate Sonam Lhamo, lovingly called “Gollie,” still feels bittersweet. Anju, on the other hand, often reflects on the bond she shared with Ugyen Dema, her closest ally on the field. But amid all the nostalgia, one name stands out as a cornerstone of their success: DS Gurung.
Their first coach, DS Gurung—now the CEO of Bhutan Cricket Council Board (BCCB)—was more than just a cricket mentor; he was a life coach. He didn’t just teach them how to play the game; he taught them the importance of discipline, resilience, and teamwork—values that still guide them today. His passion for cricket and his unwavering belief in their potential were like a guiding light, encouraging them to dream big and push beyond their limits.
Anju Gurung knows firsthand that stepping onto the field as a professional athlete demands more than just talent—it requires a relentless commitment to fitness and discipline. For her, playing in international leagues like the prestigious FairBreak Invitational was not just an honor but a game-changer in understanding the professional level of cricket.
“Fitness isn’t just about running drills; it’s about staying sharp, mentally and physically, to compete against the world’s best,” Anju explains. Representing Bhutan among seasoned international players, some of whom had played in World Cups, was both humbling and inspiring. “Sharing the field with legends showed me what it means to be a professional. Their work ethic, focus, and determination pushed me to elevate my own game.”
For Anju, maintaining top-notch fitness became non-negotiable. Running became her daily ritual, a way to sustain her stamina and remain agile. “When you’re playing at that level, even a fraction of a second can make the difference between taking a wicket or missing a catch,” she says.
The experience also taught her the importance of adaptability. “You’re not just playing with or against them; you’re learning from them—their strategies, their mindset, their way of reading the game. It’s like being in a masterclass every single match.”
Playing in an international league gave Anju a renewed sense of purpose—not just to represent Bhutan but to set a benchmark for aspiring athletes back home.
For Anju, taking the wicket of England’s renowned cricketer, Sophia Dunkley, during the FairBreak League was a moment she’ll treasure forever. Bhutan’s 🇧🇹 Anju Gurung castles England’s 🏴 Sophia Dunkley for her maiden SDG #FBI22 wicket!
For Dechen, the U19 ACC tournament remains a cherished memory, where Bhutan’s remarkable run to the finals as runners-up. Battling against bigger nations, she fondly remembers scoring 16 runs against the sensational Hong Kong bowler in one over, a former national team captain. Leading her team as captain at such a young age was both an honor and a challenge, but it taught her invaluable lessons in leadership, perseverance, and believing in her team’s potential.
For Dechen, the U19 ACC tournament remains a cherished memory, where Bhutan’s remarkable run to the finals as runners-up. Battling against bigger nations, she fondly remembers scoring 16 runs against the sensational Hong Kong bowler in one over, a former national team captain. Leading her team as captain at such a young age was both an honor and a challenge, but it taught her invaluable lessons in leadership, perseverance, and believing in her team’s potential.
As Bhutan gears up to host its first-ever international women’s cricket tournament—the Bilateral Series against Myanmar in December 2024 at Gelephu International Cricket Ground—Dechen and Anju remain central to the team’s preparations. Despite the years and challenges, their passion burns as brightly as ever.
Their impact extends beyond the cricket pitch. Dechen, now a development officer for Bhutan Cricket, uses her platform to nurture young talent, while Anju continues to inspire as a full-time player. Together, they are shaping the future of women’s cricket in Bhutan.
Dechen Wangmo and Anju Gurung’s story isn’t just about cricket—it’s about passion and the kind of friendship that keeps you going no matter what. Their journey, shaped by countless hours on the field and a shared commitment to fitness, is an inspiring reminder that dreams are built on hard work and never giving up.
With a warm smile, they admitted they’ve never taken part in the Bhutan International Marathon but hope to join next year. “Running has always been such a big part of who we are as players. It’s amazing to see the Bhutan International Marathon spreading that culture of running and inspiring so many people,” they said.
Their story is a call to action for anyone with a dream. Whether you’re gearing up for the marathon or chasing your own goals, let their journey remind you that success comes one step at a time. So lace up your shoes, take that first step, and know that with determination and the right support, you can achieve something extraordinary.
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