“Cricket is not gender-biased. It isn't that men's cricket is different and women's a different one.” – Mithali Raj
Cricket has the most extensive fan base in India. It is this sport that unites everyone. With women participating, the atmosphere became more sporty and energetic. With all the victories, come challenges. Here’s what the future of women’s cricket will be:
But before that, a brief History in time:
The 2nd Women’s Test match between Australia and England in Sydney in 1935. (Image source: Wikipedia)
Yorkshire aristocracy founded the first women’s club, in 1887. It was a remarkable landmark in the history of women’s cricket. After the First World War, a lot of women’s sporting organization was formed. In 1926, a team of female players went to Colwall to play cricket. Following that, to allow women to play and enjoy cricket, the Women’s Cricket Association was formed. In 10 years, 105 WCA member clubs came into existence.
All women’s national associations and men’s associations were merged to improve the game. Hence, in 2005, The International Women’s Cricket Council (IWCC) handed over global women’s game control to the International Cricket Council (ICC). With increased money and improved facilities, the game attracted various industries like betting. This led to the opening of other avenues and entertained the masses and non-cricket nations.
“The sport has undergone tremendous transformation since then. The popularity of women’s cricket is rapidly rising and this is a step in the right direction. The BCCI will work closely with the ICC and fulfil all the requirements.” BCCI president Sourav Ganguly had said in an ICC release.
And now to the Future of Women’s Cricket:
“We are happy that the current generation doesn’t have to struggle the way we or the ones before us did. It’s commendable the way BCCI is taking care of women’s cricket now.”
- Jhulan Goswami
Women’s IPL: The initiation of a women's Indian Premier League (IPL) will result in a "big time" change in women's cricket in India and beyond, says former India captain Mithali Raj.
Women’s Future Tours Programme (FTP): The ICC Board sanctioned both the women's and men's Future Tours Programme (FTP) from 2023 to 2027. It was informed that India will play 38 Tests during the mentioned time.
Senior Indian cricketers like Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur have set amazing examples for future women players. Along with the new doors open, the future of women’s cricket seems bright.
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