Indian Women’s Cricket: From Struggles to Unforgettable Glory India v South Africa, Final: Preview
Discover the inspiring journey of Indian women’s cricket, highlighting their triumphs and the progress they’ve made over the years.
Table of Contents
Indian women’s cricket has made significant progress—from being overlooked and underfinanced to motivating countless fans with remarkable triumphs internationally. The path is filled with resolve, obstacles, and outstanding accomplishments. Let’s delve into this motivating history gradually.
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In India, women began playing cricket informally during the 1930s and 1940s, primarily in colleges and sports clubs in urban areas such as Bombay (Mumbai) and Madras (Chennai).
The Women’s Cricket Association of India (WCAI) was established in 1973 by Mahendra Kumar Sharma. This signified the official inception of women’s cricket in India
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In 1976, the Indian women’s team faced the West Indies in their inaugural Test match held in Bangalore.
That year, India achieved its inaugural Test victory over the West Indies in Patna.
India participated in its first Women’s World Cup in 1978, which took place in India. Even though the team underperformed, organizing the tournament increased awareness.
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The squad engaged in several Test series and steadily enhanced its performance.
1984 – India secured its inaugural Women’s ODI series victory by beating Australia in Cuttack.
Regardless of skill, athletes encountered challenges including:
Absence of sponsors
A Pivotal Moment – BCCI Acquisition (2006)
A significant historical shift occurred in 2006, when the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) assumed control of women’s cricket from the WCAI as per ICC directives.
Subsequent to this:
Athletes gained improved amenities, training, and monetary assistance.
Central contracts were established for female cricketers.
The focus of the media and sponsorships started to grow.
5. The Mithali Raj and Jhulan Goswami Period (2000s – 2010s)
Two legendary figures influenced this remarkable transformation:
Mithali Raj
Launched in 1999, achieved 114 in first performance*.
Achieved the top run total in women’s international cricket.
Initial female to achieve 7,000+ ODI runs.
Led India to the World Cup finals in 2005 and 2017.
Jhulan Goswami
Launched in 2002.
Recognized as one of the quickest female bowlers globally.
Achieved the record for the most wickets in Women’s ODIs.
Honored with the Arjuna Award (2010) and the Padma Shri (2012).
6. 2017 Women’s World Cup – The True Advancement
Under Mithali Raj’s leadership, India made it to the final of the 2017 ICC Women’s World Cup.
Outstanding performances by Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana, and Jhulan Goswami drew national focus.
Harmanpreet’s 171 against Australia* became one of the most remarkable ODI innings in women’s cricket.
Although India was defeated by England in the final, women’s cricket finally gained recognition as a mainstream sport in India
7. Contemporary Era & Emerging Talents (2020s)
2020 T20 World Cup: India made it to the final for the first occasion. Teenage prodigy Shafali Verma rose to international fame.
2022 Commonwealth Games: India secured the silver medal.
2023: The Women’s Premier League (WPL) in India was established, providing female cricketers a professional stage similar to the IPL.
Notable players at present are Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, and Renuka Singh.
8. Honors & Acknowledgments
Mithali Raj – Arjuna Award, Khel Ratna & Padma Shri.
Jhulan Goswami – Arjuna Award, Padma Shri.
Harmanpreet Kaur – Arjuna Award (2017).
The biographical film “Chakda ’Xpress” based on Jhulan Goswami’s journey.
9. Prospects for Indian Women’s Cricket
With WPL, enhanced sponsorship, top-tier training, and growing fan backing, the outlook is promising. The vision is now evident:
🏆 Triumphant at the ICC Women’s World Cup.
Final Thoughts
From competing in obscurity to captivating crowds, Indian women’s cricket narrates a story of dedication, hardship, and victory. The path of iconic women cricketers has not only shaped a sport—they’ve created a legacy that motivates countless young girls to aspire greatly.