Isa Guha’s Early Love for Cricket
As a young teenager, Isa Guha thrilled at the chance to play cricket, often bowling with the boys in the scenic Thames Valley. Her enthusiasm for the sport began in her youth and has only grown since then.
Recognition from the King
Fast forward twenty years, and the former England star and Fox Cricket analyst was honored by King Charles this week for her charitable endeavors aimed at promoting cricket among girls and women in the UK.
A Summer of Impact
This summer has been particularly active for Guha as she organized fundraising events for her charity, Take Her Lead, across Australia, coinciding with Test matches to further her mission.
A Prestigious Honor
Her impactful work led to her receiving an MBE in King Charles’s New Year’s Honors List for 2026. Guha expressed her gratitude, stating, “It is obviously really special,” and emphasized how pivotal her mother’s support has been throughout her journey.
Breaking Barriers in Cricket
Guha has always stood out not only for her impressive skills that helped her win Ashes series and a World Cup, but also because she was often the only girl playing cricket in her area. She recalled how her family encouraged her, fostering her independence in pursuing her cricketing dreams.
Commitment to Inclusivity
Through Take Her Lead, Guha focuses on enhancing inclusivity in cricket for girls and young women. Her charity’s initiatives aim to provide support and opportunities to underprivileged audiences, ensuring that more girls stay involved in the sport.
A Supportive Community
Guha’s efforts have garnered recognition from the cricket community, including praise from prominent figures like Richard Thompson from the English Cricket Board. Her work embodies a commitment to fostering future generations of female cricket players, emphasizing the importance of creating supportive environments.
