Women’s cricket in India has evolved from relative obscurity to a movement that captures nationwide attention and pride. Long viewed as a niche sport, the women’s game has benefited from decades of perseverance by players, administrators and fans who believed in its potential. Today the sport enjoys professional contracts, dedicated leagues and a growing fanbase. In this article we explore the forces behind this dramatic rise and the path forward for women’s cricket in India.
Early Struggles and Historical Context
Women’s cricket in India traces its roots to the 1970s, when pioneering athletes formed the Women’s Cricket Association of India and played largely for passion and love of the game. Resources were scarce, media coverage was minimal and players often balanced training with full-time jobs. International fixtures were infrequent and domestic competitions received little support. It wasn’t until the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) took over administration in 2006 that the groundwork for growth was laid. The transfer of governance signalled a commitment to integrating women’s cricket into mainstream structures (bcci.tv/women).
Landmark Performances and Milestones
A defining moment came at the 2017 ICC Women’s World Cup when India reached the final against England. The team’s spirited run—including captain Mithali Raj becoming the world’s leading run-scorer and Harmanpreet Kaur’s 171* against Australia—drew millions of viewers back home and highlighted the skill and competitiveness of the women’s game. The momentum continued with India’s appearance in the 2020 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup final, where a young squad led by Shafali Verma and Poonam Yadav captivated audiences. Success in regional tournaments like the Women’s Asia Cup and the emergence of stars such as Smriti Mandhana have solidified India’s position among the top women’s cricket nations (icc-cricket.com/womens-cricket).
Investment and Professionalization
Following these successes, the BCCI has invested significantly in women’s cricket. Central contracts now provide players with financial stability and access to world-class coaching and medical facilities. Domestic structures have been revamped, culminating in the launch of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) in 2023. Modeled on the Indian Premier League, the WPL features city-based franchises, broadcast partnerships and substantial player salaries, offering a platform for domestic talent and international stars. Grassroots tournaments like the Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup and the Senior Women’s T20 Trophy create pathways for youth players to progress into the national setup.
Grassroots Development and Infrastructure
Meaningful growth must start at the grassroots level. Schools, colleges and state associations are expanding girls’ cricket programs, providing equipment, coaching and competitive opportunities. The BCCI’s National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru runs specialised camps for female cricketers focusing on fitness, skills and leadership. Several state governments are building dedicated cricket facilities for women, recognising that access to safe grounds and high-quality training environments is critical. Non-profit organisations and private academies also play an important role in identifying talent in rural areas and underrepresented communities.
Changing Perceptions and Media Coverage
Media coverage and public perception have improved dramatically. Televised matches on sports networks and streaming platforms allow fans across the country to watch women’s games live. Social media has given players a platform to share their journeys and engage with supporters. Brands and sponsors, sensing a shift in public sentiment, have begun to invest in female athletes and leagues. This visibility not only inspires young girls to pick up a bat and ball but also normalises women’s participation in a sport long dominated by men.
Remaining Challenges and the Road Ahead
Despite progress, challenges remain. Pay parity between men and women is still a work in progress, and the depth of domestic competition needs strengthening. Culturally, some families continue to discourage girls from pursuing sports careers. Addressing these issues requires sustained investment, inclusive policies and education. Expanding the number of domestic teams, increasing match frequency and improving coaching at all levels will help build a broader talent pool. Collaborations with global cricket boards and participation in multi-national tournaments will further raise standards.
Conclusion
The rise of women’s cricket in India is a testament to resilience and vision. From humble beginnings to packed stadiums, the journey has been fuelled by the dedication of players and support from governing bodies like the BCCI. As the sport continues to professionalise and gain popularity, it carries the potential to inspire social change by challenging gender stereotypes and promoting equality. With strong foundations now in place—and with fans and sponsors rallying behind the teams—women’s cricket in India is poised to reach even greater heights over the next decade. By nurturing young talent, improving infrastructure and ensuring equitable opportunities, India can continue to chart a path to glory on the global stage.
