Women's IPL is not a good idea: Mithali Raj
In order to popularise women's cricket, the BCCI is considering to launch the women's IPL. But Indian women's team skipper, Mithali Raj has given the cricket body a lot to think about. She stressed on the need for a strong domestic set-up before India launches women's IPL. Mithali believes a strong domestic set-up will give the bench-strength required for a tournament like IPL.
Mithali calls for a strong domestic setup before IPL
"I personally believe that when you have strong domestic set-up that churns out quality players, then giving them an opportunity in IPL makes sense." Mithali Raj said.
India were whitewashed by Australia in ODIs
The Indian women's team were whitewashed by Australia in the recently concluded 3 match ODI series and are now preparing for the T20 tri-series against Australia and world champions England. The BCCI is likely to organise IPL like exhibition matches for the women. These matches will also include foreign players and will be conducted during the 11th edition of the cash-rich tournament.
Mithali feels India 'A' lack quality players
"India 'A' itself need more quality players...You can feed in any player from the domestic circuit, but there will be a stark difference between the calibre of an international player and domestic rookie, which might go against the idea of promoting women's cricket." Mithali said.
Mithali Raj once believed India needed women's IPL
Mithali's comment is in contrast to what she had said after India lost the final of the 50-over World Cup to England in 2017. Back then, she had claimed the time was right to launch a competition like IPL for women's cricketers. "If you ask me, they should have (women's) IPL because now is the right time to create that base," Mithali had said.
Does Mithali Raj's comment make sense?
The IPL has been seen as a platform for youngsters to showcase their talent. But Mithali Raj is right to claim that India is not ready for the women's IPL. Rubbing shoulders against the best could improve the youngsters, but right now Indian women's national team doesn't boast of a quality bench-strength. Building teams for IPL would be a huge task.
