Verma, 16, had a breakthrough T20 World Cup tournament in Australia last month, and despite being visibly disappointed at India’s loss in the final, has managed to put it all behind her and spend some time with the family.

The coronavirus-enforced break means her class 10 exams have been postponed, her cricket practice has been halted, and her academy is closed for training. It’s not ideal, but she understands the need for it all, and as far as safety measures are concerned, she is following advice from India’s batting legend Tendulkar.

It was nice meeting you too, Shafali.
Hearing from you on how you had travelled all the way to Lahli to see my last Ranji Game & now seeing you play for India is amazing.

Keep chasing your dreams because dreams do come true.
Enjoy the game and always give your best. ?

— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) February 12, 2020

“As far as health measures are concerned, I am following Sachin (Tendulkar) sir’s message,” she said in her column in the Hindustan Times. “He tweeted recently to wash hands, maintain hygiene at home and workplace; I am following all that.

“Everywhere you go, there are messages on the ways to tackle coronavirus – be it on phone, television, newspapers – and it’s very important that people follow it seriously. I hope everyone stays safe and healthy.”

[caption id=”attachment_140629″ align=”alignnone” width=”800″] Shafali Verma took up cricket after watching Sachin Tendulkar in his final Ranji Trophy game in 2013[/caption]

She admitted the break was “frustrating” though, particularly not being able to have a nets session, but she’s doing all she can to keep the rhythm. “There are not too many people around when I go [to the academy] and I can’t even hit the ball in the nets,” she said.

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“That’s a bit frustrating. But in times like these, taking care of one’s health is the primary concern. I am following the motto too. I often shadow practice at home with a tennis ball. For a [batter], it’s essential to maintain the rhythm and touch. It’s very important that I don’t get rusty.

“Nothing can substitute playing an actual game, but one has to make the best out of a situation.”