The Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) made a landmark stride towards promoting women’s cricket in the state by organising its first-ever Women’s Exhibition Match at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram.
The match, staged as a curtain-raiser ahead of the Kerala Cricket League (KCL) 2025 final, showcased the depth of emerging talent and also set the tone for the women’s tournament that the KCA is all set to introduce from 2026.
Fans who turned up to witness the grand finale build-up were treated to a riveting clash between KCA Angels and KCA Queens. In a tightly fought contest, the Angels came out on top with a 12-run victory, registering 114 for eight in their 20 overs before stifling the Queens’ chase at 102 for five.
Winning the toss and opting to bat, KCA Angels had a rocky start, losing quick wickets inside the power play. It was the resilient partnership between Akhila (24) and Akshaya (23) that steadied the innings, adding 38 valuable runs for the third wicket.
Their efforts provided much-needed energy in the middle overs. Later, India U-19 cricketer VJ Joshitha chipped in with a composed 22 off 18 deliveries, helping the Angels finish at a respectable 114. The Queens’ bowlers, led by national players Sajana Sajeevan and Asha Shobhana, claimed two wickets apiece and ensured that the Angels did not run away with the contest.
The chase looked well within reach early on, despite the Queens losing opener Ansu Sunil cheaply. Captain Sajana anchored the innings with a composed 33, while Vaishnavy contributed a steady 22 as the duo stitched together a 41-run stand. The partnership, however, was broken at a crucial juncture, and despite their best efforts, the Queens’ middle order failed to accelerate. Restrained by disciplined bowling and energetic fielding from their opponents, the Queens eventually fell 12 runs short.
Shani, the Angels’ captain, not only marshalled her troops admirably but also put up a standout all-round performance. After scoring valuable runs with the bat, she picked up two wickets with the ball, rightfully earning the Player of the Match honours. Her leadership and impact under pressure were decisive in tilting the contest in favour of the Angels.
The Exhibition Match was more than just a sporting contest; it was a statement of intent from the Kerala Cricket Association. With the women’s league now firmly scheduled to begin in 2026, KCA has provided its players with a platform to showcase skills, build recognition, and garner confidence. The event drew enthusiastic response from fans and players alike, pointing to a strong appetite for women’s cricket in Kerala.
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