The demand for a tournament reflecting the standard of the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL), The Hundred Women’s Competition and the Women’s Caribbean Premier League (WCPL) was overdue long before the Women’s Premier League (WPL) was introduced. The inception of the WPL has been the answer to this call, allowing female cricketers to take the game to the next level in India.
The influence of the Indian women’s lack of experience on the major stage, compared to the men’s, was the cause of the ‘slip between the cup and the lip.’ To contend with this, the BCCI has been considering introducing a Women’s IPL for a long time. This vision was made a reality earlier this year as the broadcast rights, five franchises, and the first-ever WPL auction with 87 participants were sold, including 30 overseas players.
The WPL has already seen some great matches and performances over three weeks. Anjum Chopra has weighed in on the highs and lows of the tournament so far, as well as which uncapped Indian wowed her the most. She also shared her opinion on RCB’s not-so-successful start to the season.
In a recent interview, former Indian women’s cricket captain Anjum Chopra addressed many questions. Here are some of the excerpts:
Q: Only two of the five franchises started with regular Indian captains. Do you think there should be more Indian captains in the league?
Anjum Chopra: Yes, ideally.
Q: What, according to you, left RCB struggling at the start despite having such a star-studded team?
Anjum Chopra: They have been unable to win small moments in the matches so far. It’s a fast game, so coming from behind poses a challenge.
Q: Which uncapped Indian has impressed you the most?
Anjum Chopra: Saika Ishaque, without a doubt!
Q: Do you think the inaugural edition of the WPL should’ve had icon players like the inaugural edition of the IPL?
Anjum Chopra: The league has made a strong impact in this short space and has got the crowds to come to the stadium to watch the matches too. I am very happy with the turnout.
