Rashmika Mandanna salutes women cricketers

If actor Rashmika Mandanna is not on the sets of Yajamana, then she's probably on the sports ground playing a game of cricket. The actor is trying to up her game, quite literally, for her upcoming film with Vijay Devarakonda. Her plate is full, with shooting for a Kannada film and Nani and Nagarjuna's yet-to-be titled project. But Rashmika has been squeezing in some time to learn cricket for her next film, Dear Comrade, that will see her playing the role of a cricketer in the women's league.

Currently in Mumbai to shoot a few scenes on the beaches of the city, along with lead actor Darshan and Tanya Hope for Yajamana, Rashmika is unhappy about the humid weather. "It's horrible, but we are pulling along this schedule. Career-wise, it has been intense. If I have to shoot in the morning, I train in the evening, and in between, I have rehearsals to attend as well. I am satisfied that I am doing something good. But still, I crave something new and I know there is room for more," says the Kirik Party girl, who is shuttling between Bengaluru and Hyderabad.

Rashmika is being personally trained by Ronald. "As a coach, Ronald, has a knack for teaching newcomers," she says. It's her first time playing the game, and Rashmika has already started looking up to cricketers, especially women players, and appreciating their efforts. "Never in my life had I held a bat and ball. From the training, I have learnt so much-- there's so much hand, leg and head co-ordination. Now I know how hard the game is. My respect to the women's cricket team. Somehow, it's easier for guys, but for women, holding the bat and running around is quite a challenge. I bow to them," says the actor, who even met the Captain of the Women's Cricket team in Hyderabad and mentioned to them what a huge fans of their's she was.

With hands full of projects, both in Kannada and Telugu, Rashmika is tied-up for the next couple of months. "I also have a few other interesting projects in Kannada coming my way. Hopefully, I should have a project rolling after July."