The inaugural Women’s Premier League (WPL) proved to be a watershed moment for women’s cricket in India, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of the sport. Under the inspiring leadership of Harmanpreet Kaur, the Mumbai Indians clinched victory in the historic first edition of the women’s T20 tournament, ushering in a new era of recognition and enthusiasm for women’s cricket.
The championship clash between the Mumbai Indians and the Delhi Capitals epitomized the excitement and competitiveness that the WPL brought to the forefront. The Mumbai Indians emerged triumphant in a thrilling summit clash, captivating the imagination of cricket enthusiasts nationwide.
Harmanpreet Kaur, a dynamic and influential figure in Indian women’s cricket, shared her insights and enthusiasm for the tournament on the Daggers & Lyds podcast. She described the WPL as a “game changer,” underscoring its transformative impact on the cricketing landscape.
Kaur emphasized the tournament’s overwhelming support from fans, noting that some were even more captivated by the women’s IPL than the men’s IPL due to the fresh perspective it brought to the game.
Kaur said, “WPL was a game changer for us. That tournament was fantastic. Back at home, everyone adored it. Trust me, part of the crowd was more interested in women’s IPL than men’s IPL since it was something new to watch.”
Looking ahead, Kaur expressed optimism about expanding the Women’s Premier League. She articulated her hope for the inclusion of additional teams in future editions, recognizing the abundance of talent present in India. Kaur’s sentiment of giving talented domestic players the platform they deserve highlights the mission of the WPL to foster and elevate women’s cricket within the country.
“We’re hoping to add more teams. I’m not sure when it will happen, but it will. We have a lot of talent at home. Those girls should get this chance,” she added.
While actively participating in the Women’s Hundred competition for the Trent Rockets, Kaur shared her experiences gained from competing in various T20 franchise leagues outside India. These international exposures have enriched her skill set and allowed her to collaborate with players from diverse cricketing backgrounds.
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“When I initially got to play in the WBBL, it was a fantastic chance because we were all playing domestic cricket then. There were no foreign players present. Then I joined the KIA league and began playing alongside English players. You require such opportunities,” she concluded.
Kaur’s journey, which began with her involvement in the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) and later the KIA Super League, showcases the significance of international opportunities for skill development and mutual learning. These experiences provide a broader perspective that enhances players’ overall understanding of the game.
