BCCI Committed to Promoting Women's Red-Ball Cricket, Says Secretary Devajit Saikia

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) remains committed to promoting women's red-ball cricket, with a focus on increasing the number of Test matches and multi-day games in the domestic circuit. This commitment comes after India's record chase against Australia in the Women's ODI World Cup semi-final, where the team led by Harmanpreet Kaur impressed with their remarkable performance. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia praised the team and acknowledged the growing support for women's cricket in India.

Key Takeaways:

  • The BCCI is committed to increasing the number of Test matches for women and multi-day games at the domestic level, as stated by Secretary Devajit Saikia.
  • India restarted playing multi-day (Test) cricket with Australia, New Zealand, and England three years ago, with a special initiative taken by former secretary Jay Shah to promote women's Test cricket.
  • The BCCI must strengthen the domestic structure with longer-format tournaments to help players adapt to Test cricket, according to Saikia.
  • The board plans to introduce more multi-day tournaments for women at the senior level, similar to the Ranji Trophy for men.
  • India is already playing Test matches against England and Australia, and the BCCI aims to include multi-day matches in all bilateral series.
  • The Women's Premier League (WPL) has had a profound impact on women's cricket in India, changing the landscape with its professional approach and sponsorship.
  • A World Cup victory could elevate women's cricket in India to new heights, according to Saikia.
  • The packed stadium at DY Patil during the semi-final is a sign of the growing support for women's cricket in India.

Statistics:

  • Three years ago, India re-started playing multi-day (Test) cricket with Australia, England, and New Zealand.
  • The BCCI played a Test match between India and Australia in 2020.
  • The WPL was introduced with a professional approach and significant sponsorship, viewership, and digital presence.

Sources:

  • "BCCI secretary Saikia on the board's commitment to women's Test cricket" by PTI
  • Go Beyond The Boundary YouTube channel