BCCI mulls women's exhibition T20s during IPL
BCCI is busy drafting big plans for the 2018 IPL. One such plan is women's T20 exhibition matches during the knock-out stage of the IPL. The blueprint is still in its early stage and if everything works out logistically, it will be put into action. The move is to test the popularity of women's cricket before BCCI launches a women's T20 league.
BCCI working towards women's IPL
As per a report in the Times of India, CoA chairman Vinod Rai is keen on conducting a women's IPL this year and the BCCI could bring its plan into action soon. "If we find that we can host a few exhibition matches then BCCI would like to do it this year. The women cricketers deserve to play IPL," Rai was quoted by TOI
IPL's Governing Council is also open to this idea
The good news for women's cricket is that the IPL's Governing Council too is deliberating on the proposal, which was given to them in October last year. "The members deliberated on the requirement for a women's event besides an event for the juniors. The members suggested that a plan can be drawn and presented at the subsequent meeting." the minutes of the meeting stated.
Women's cricket gaining popularity in India
But a lot of planning will be required if this has to be brought into action. Women's cricket is slowly gaining popularity in India, thanks to the brilliant performances by Mithali Raj and Co. during the women's world cup in England last year. Mithali and her girls might have fallen short in the final but they won several hearts back home for their efforts.
Diana Edulji backs Women's T20 league
"IPL GC may discuss it for sure. If it's feasible we will do it. I am all for women's IPL. But it's too late this year to come up with a full-fledged event because of time constraint. We need a different window," Diana Edulji said.
A lot of women's cricket in the next few months
If things go as per the plan, few top cricketers from England, South Africa and Australia, along with other nations, could be invited for the exhibition matches. But before that, India will play England next month followed by a tri-series involving England and Australia at home. Post that, India will play yet another series against Australia.
Women's team are on a tight schedule
The schedule looks tight for the women's cricket team. They will play their last ODI against England on 14th of April, halfway into the IPL. The women's team will have to squeeze in a few games for the exhibition games, before they begin the Australia series. A lot of cricket is on the cards, so will the matches be possible?
