Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) will host the Women’s T20 Cricket Tournament from 4th June to 10th June at the North Jose Academy Ground in Viziangaram. This will be the second edition of the tournament after the successful inaugural season last year.
Addressing a press conference at Dr. YSR ACA VDCA Stadium, Honorary Secretary of the Andhra Pradesh Cricket Association, Gopinath Reddy said that Andhra Pradesh became the first state to host women’s T20 last year. The first edition was successful in showcasing the talent of local players and giving them an opportunity to play. It also had four players participate in India’s biggest league for women, the Women’s Premier League.
There will be four teams participating in the competition this year as well, namely; Vizag Dolphins, Vizianagaram Royal, Rayalseema Queens, and Bezawada Blazers. The matches will be played in the morning as well as in the afternoon. Mr. Reddy confirmed that the matches will be telecast live on DD Sports to give players wide exposure.
The same four teams competed in the previous season as well. Vizianagaram Royals were the champions last year. They defeated Vizag Dolphins by 7 wickets in the championship match. In the previous season, 149 was the highest team total and 33 was the lowest. Devika K took the most wickets with 12 in seven games, while Challa Jhansi Lakshmi scored the most runs, 259 in six games at an average of 51.
Local T20 leagues’ advent has been beneficial for women’s cricket since it has given players a stage to demonstrate their talent and improve their skills. These leagues have brought together players creating a community of female cricketers. They have also given players who previously struggled to support themselves through the sport stability and financial security.
Such leagues have increased the popularity of women’s cricket and assisted in dismantling gender stereotypes by drawing spectators’ and media attention. They have promoted the growth of grassroots cricket, encouraging young girls to take up the sport and serving as role models for them. Overall, the future and popularity of the sport depend on its sustained success.
(Inputs from The Hindu)
