Women’s cricket on the path to rule

Bengaluru: This season of the Women's Premier League (WPL), I opted for a new perspective I decided to champion ‘women in sports’. The swift ascent of women’s cricket and the increasing excitement surrounding the WPL inspired me to engage with this movement firsthand. Consequently, on February 27, I attended my inaugural WPL match at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, featuring Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) against Gujarat Giants. Having never watched a women’s cricket match in a stadium setting, I anticipated a smaller audience and a more subdued environment than men’s.

However, I was pleasantly surprised. Upon entering the stadium, the energy was electric. Fans clad in RCB red, waving flags and holding posters, erupted in enthusiastic cheers, passionately rallying behind their teams. The sight of thousands united in support of women’s cricket was genuinely uplifting. It highlighted the significant progress the sport has made, especially after RCB’s landmark WPL 2024 victory, which has undoubtedly sparked greater interest and backing for women’s cricket. What was particularly noteworthy was the significant number of women in the audience. Young girls, mothers, and groups of friends cheered fiercely, celebrating every boundary and wicket.

Witnessing such fervour reaffirmed that women’s cricket is evolving beyond a niche interest; it is rapidly becoming a mainstream spectacle. WPL is doing what once seemed impossible: bringing women’s cricket to the forefront. The growing viewership, sponsorships, and media attention are paving the way for a more competitive and inclusive future. This experience was more than just a match; it was a powerful reminder that women’s cricket is here to stay, and it’s only getting bigger. While the overwhelming support for WPL is heartening, there is still a long way to go for women’s cricket to achieve true parity with the men’s game.

The infrastructure, investment, and opportunities available to women cricketers still lag. Salaries, sponsorship deals, and grassroots development need further enhancement to ensure sustained growth. Additionally, while WPL has gained momentum, consistent viewership and engagement beyond the tournament season will be crucial.That said, this is a fantastic start. The excitement, packed stadiums, and increasing recognition show that women’s cricket is on the right path. With continued support, it can reach even greater heights.