The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is planning to give a big boost to women's cricket in India. It is planning to introduce more India A tours in near future. Besides the 'A' tour, there are plans to expand the U-16 domestic zonal tournament to the all-India level. As of now, all-India junior tournaments cover only the U-19 and U-23 category.
The Committee of Administrators (CoA) member Diana Edulji is part of the women's committee, which will be meeting to decide the road ahead for women's cricket in the country. The other members are current ODI captain Mithali Raj, senior pacer Jhulan Goswami with the BCCI GM-Game Development, Ratnakar Shetty, being the convener.
Another issue which is likely to be discussed in the meeting is the lack of international assignments for the national team, which became overnight stars with their showing in the World Cup last month. "The team is not scheduled to play any international match this year. So we have already written to all the full members for bilateral limited overs series or even a tri- series. As of now, we have got positive response from England and Australia.
"The next assignment for India will probably be the ICC ODI Championship next year and there we are keen that team plays a tri-series along with the bilateral series. Having more domestic events and A tours will also go a long way in creating big enough pool for the Women's IPL," the official said.
Former India captain Shantha Rangaswamy said India A tours for women were due for a long time.
"I remember our A team travelling to Pakistan 15 years back but no tour has been organised since then. Therefore, it will be ideal if it becomes a regular feature. It will give our girls much needed exposure," she said.
Contrary to popular belief that India is not yet ready for a Women's IPL, Rangaswamy said the league could only help the game in the country. "Everyone had their apprehensions when the men's IPL started in 2008. Look where the league has reached in 10 years time. The Women's IPL could have a similar script. If there can be a Big Bash in Australia, why not an IPL in India," she asked.
