Mumbai, Sep 21 (NationPress) BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia expresses hope that the Women in Blue will finally overcome their challenges and secure their first ICC title as they prepare for the ICC Women’s World Cup, which kicks off on September 30. He revealed that Assam’s cricketing body, in collaboration with the Indian cricket board, is set to host an opening ceremony in Guwahati prior to the World Cup match between India and Sri Lanka.

Saikia extended his best wishes to the Indian women’s team and commended their recent performances against Australia at home and England away. India managed to secure victories in both the T20I and ODI series against England on their home turf, although they narrowly lost the three-match ODI series against the Australians in the last match after leveling the series.

The BCCI secretary reflected on the progress of the Indian women’s cricket team, stating that they have come a long way.

“The series was highly competitive, concluding yesterday with Australia winning 2-1. However, India showcased remarkable skill. They nearly chased down a target of 412 runs, falling short by just a few runs. India did secure a significant victory by 102 runs in one match, while they lost another by eight wickets. There is a clear competitive balance between India and Australia. Australia is recognized as one of the top teams in women’s cricket, and India is making significant strides,” Saikia communicated to reporters on Sunday while filing his nomination at the BCCI headquarters.

“India has yet to claim an ICC Women's Trophy. This represents a major opportunity for the Indian women’s team to excel. The matches are being held in both India and Sri Lanka, and there is widespread support for our Indian team. Their recent successes in England, including victories in T20Is and ODIs, are noteworthy achievements. This signifies that Indian women’s cricket has truly matured. I am confident they will deliver an outstanding performance in the upcoming World Cup. I sincerely hope they break the jinx this time,” he added.

Saikia also shared his condolences for the late Zubeen Garg, who passed away on Saturday, mentioning that the state’s cricketing body has planned a special 40-minute tribute to honor the singer.

“This marks the first time Guwahati is hosting the ICC Women's World Cup. It will commence in Guwahati on September 30, with the opening match featuring India against Sri Lanka. Both the ICC and BCCI are organizing an opening ceremony. The Assam Cricket Association, potentially in partnership with the BCCI, will hold a tribute at the opening event as Zubeen Garg was a beloved musical icon of Assam,” Saikia noted.

“A 40-minute tribute program will take place in Zubeen Garg's memory. Shreya Ghoshal has confirmed her participation; she will perform before the match and during the mid-innings break. Shreya will present 4-5 of her greatest hits along with the theme song for the ICC Women's World Cup 2025,” he stated.

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