Women’s IPL Set to Skyrocket Indian Cricket to Newer Heights
The second T20I between the women’s teams of Australia and India has propelled Indian cricket to a new level. The estimated 47,000 people who crammed into the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai for the match was remarkable, considering it was only the second T20I between these two sides. This is also due to the first match having an approximated 25,000 in attendance at the same venue.
The crowd was treated to a thrilling match with India chasing down Australia’s 187-run target before a one-over eliminator decided the match in India’s favour. Despite losing the series 4-1, this incredible turnout is set to skyrocket Indian cricket to newer heights. With the announcement of the Women’s IPL in the near future, this second T20I gives us a glimpse of the level of enthusiasm for women’s cricket in India. It brings with it immense hope for the future of Indian cricket and will surely be a game changer for the industry.
Indian women’s cricket is becoming as popular as men’s game.
Heather Graham, Australian player, is quoted as saying “The fact that we play in front of only, maybe, 5,000 people in WBBL; to come out and play in front of a crowd with 47,000 was unbelievable. This showcases the crowds women’s cricket can get and how exciting it can be.” With the Women’s IPL looming in the future, we can expect to see bigger crowds yet again, and a much larger fan base for Indian cricket.
The success of the auction for Women’s IPL teams this week is proof that women’s cricket in India is on its way to becoming as popular as the men’s game. With Ahmedabad being sold for the highest price of Rs 1,289 crore and Delhi for Rs 810 crore, this is a remarkable feat and will surely be an inspiration for all aspiring female cricketers in India. With the help of Viacom 18, who have been awarded the media rights for Rs 951 crore for five years until 2023, Women’s IPL is on track to becoming the second-highest valued cricket league in India after IPL.
It is safe to say that the Women’s IPL will be a game changer in Indian cricket, giving aspiring female cricketers the platform to showcase their skills, and providing entertainment and excitement for cricket fans. It is a cause worth celebrating, as we are en route to a new era for women’s cricket in India. This success story will hopefully encourage other countries to take steps towards the development of their women’s cricket teams, and bring in a new wave of popularity and appreciation for women’s cricket everywhere.
Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma take center stage in women’s cricket spotlight.
The growth of women’s cricket has been spurred by its players and results. India’s journey to the 2017 ODI World Cup final triggered a strong interest in the team that has sustained. Smriti Mandhana, and Shafali Verma are now third and eighth respectively in ICC T20I batting rankings, and have become instant celebrities, with magazine covers and television advertisements. The Women’s IPL is sure to take them further into the spotlight, and will act as a platform for their growth as players on an international stage.
The future looks bright for women’s cricket in India and the Women’s IPL is sure to fuel its rapid rise. With the contributions of many talented players like Deepti Sharma, Renuka Singh and Sneh Rana in the Top 10 rankings for bowlers, as well as Smriti Mandhana being ranked No. 2 among all-rounders, we can expect a bright future for Women’s cricket in India. This success story will surely act as an inspiration to other aspiring women cricketers, and encourage them to keep striving for their dreams. The journey ahead is sure to be filled with much enthusiasm and excitement!