The house gets divided every time there is a discussion on whether India should come up with an Indian Premier League (IPL)-style league for women. England captain, Heather Knight, believes that such a league could be the way forward for women’s cricket.
“The IPL has the potential to help women’s cricket go to the next level. You have seen the success of (Kia) Super League and Women’s Big Bash around the world,” Knight said on Thursday, ahead of England’s ODI series against India’s women’s team.
Having played for Hobart Hurricanes in the Women’s Big Bash League and also a regular at the Kia Super League, Knight feels that if IPL finally kicks off, it will be good for the game.
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“...(These leagues) help players develop as well. It is great to be involved in. If the IPL comes up, it will be a brilliant addition (to the list),” the England captain said.
Last year, the BCCI had organised an exhibition women’s T20 challenge before the IPL Qualifier 1 in Mumbai. The fixture featured 26 players including 10 international stars from Australia, England and New Zealand.
Though half the stands at the Wankhede Stadium remained empty, the efforts of starting a new venture was welcomed by current and former women cricketers.
“I watched the exhibition match back home last year and thought it was a good idea. If it is organised right and (has the) right resources, it can be successful and can be very good for the game,” Knight said.
The BCCI is likely to host exhibition matches this year as well.
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