Smriti Mandhana: WPL is Following IPL's Footsteps in Cricket Impact
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Synopsis
Smriti Mandhana highlights the transformative effect of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) on women's cricket, akin to the Indian Premier League's (IPL) influence on men's cricket. She discusses the rise in female spectators, budding cricketers, and the importance of nutrition and development programs in fostering the next generation of players.
Key Takeaways
- WPL's growth mirrors IPL's impact on cricket.
- Increased female attendance at matches.
- Young girls aspiring to be cricketers.
- Focus on holistic player development in academies.
- Importance of nutrition for young athletes.
New Delhi, April 18 (NationPress) Smriti Mandhana, the vice-captain of the Indian women's cricket team, asserts that the Women’s Premier League (WPL) is starting to mirror the significant influence that the Indian Premier League (IPL) has had on men's cricket in India since it commenced on this date in 2008.
“Certainly, over the past three years, we have witnessed the remarkable growth of the WPL, along with an increase in the number of girls attending WPL matches. A few years ago, the stands were primarily filled with male spectators, but now there's a noticeable rise in female fans coming to watch the games,” she remarked.
“Young girls are approaching us, expressing their dreams of becoming cricketers, which is truly encouraging. The WPL has undoubtedly made a significant impact on the way T20 cricket is perceived and its entertainment value. What the IPL has accomplished for men's cricket over the past 17 years, I am confident the WPL has just begun to achieve,” Smriti shared with IANS while launching the City Cricket Academy in Dubai.
Since the WPL's inception in 2023, there has been a notable increase in the number of girls enrolling in cricket academies across both major and minor cities in India. Smriti, who runs her own academy in her hometown of Sangli in Maharashtra, also discussed her vision for player development initiatives at the newly established academy in Dubai.
“We're observing greater involvement, not just in cities with WPL teams, but also from regions without them. The impact on the domestic circuit is evident, as girls are eager to enhance their skills to secure a spot in the WPL or international cricket, which is wonderful,” she explained.
“This momentum will lead to the establishment of better facilities in academies, and that was a key point of discussion with Don (Anshuman Bhagwati, Academy Director) regarding the academy’s direction. While it's open to everyone, our primary focus is on how we can foster women's cricket through comprehensive development, not just skill enhancement,” she added.
“Many academies tend to concentrate solely on skills, but we aim to implement programs that promote personal strength and conditioning. Our goal is to produce well-rounded players who leave the academy as polished athletes.”
Smriti, who will participate in India's upcoming ODI tri-series in Sri Lanka from April 27 to May 11, featuring South Africa as the third team, concluded by addressing the growing awareness of nutrition in women's cricket and her plans to assist young players in this regard in Dubai.
“We had a fruitful discussion about the importance of nutrition, which has become increasingly recognized not just for elite athletes but for everyone. Over the years, we've realized how critical nutrition is for maintaining elite athletic performance,” she stated.
“However, I believe that even if the right nutrition is not emphasized during our formative years—when we often consumed junk food—it plays a significant role if introduced at an appropriate age.”
“We will certainly have nutritionists available to guide players who seek it, as nutrition is a personal choice. We'll also offer clinics to raise awareness about proper nutrition practices and debunk misconceptions.”
“For example, when a young athlete aged 14-15 comes to us, we don't want to impose strict dietary restrictions, as there's a distinct balance between the needs of children and elite athletes. We're aware of what needs to be done, and we aim to adhere to those plans. Thus, I am confident that we will have a sports nutritionist on board and conduct numerous clinics to promote awareness in this domain,” she concluded.
