Watch! Smriti Mandhana gives her take on the possibility of Women’s IPL taking place

Indian Premier League since its inception in 2008 has created a cult following amongst the cricket fans. Ever since the start of the league, franchise cricket around the world has taken over big time. What started as a eight team tournament, the league has expanded to 10 teams. Gujarat and Lucknow were the new teams added, as Hardik Pandya led Gujarat won the title in its debut year. The success of IPL hasn’t just been financially but also in terms of newer talents being introduced to Indian cricket.

The story as it happened –

Post the massive success of the Indian Premier League, there has been calls for Women’s IPL to be played. BCCI started holding Women’s challenge tournament during the play-offs week of the Men’s IPL. The BCCI on its part has now revealed that IPL for women could be started and played as early as March 2023. BCCI president Sourav Ganguly had said “We are at the level of formulation to have a full-fledged WIPL. It is certainly going to happen, I strongly believe that next year i.e. 2023 will be a very good time to start a full-fledged women's IPL which will be as big and grand a success as men's IPL."

Smriti Mandhana reveals her views on Women’s IPL –

Dynamic Indian opener Smriti Mandhana who is playing in the Hundred League was recently asked her views on the upcoming Women’s IPL. The stylish left hander was asked “With the Women's IPL coming next year, can we expect the same kind of enthusiasm back at home as well?”. To which she replied “I think whenever we play there is a lot of enthusiasm back home irrespective of the format. Indian fans love cricket and they turn up to support us regardless of whether it is a one-day or T20. So, the Women's IPL will be great."

Massive Anticipation for the WIPL –

Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals have already expressed their interest in picking up stake in the proposed league. Former Indian skipper Mithali Raj too has expressed her interest in getting back to the game to be part of the inaugural Women’s T20 league. The former Indian skipper had said if the league sees the light of the day she would like to be part of the Women’s IPL. If the league does start as per expectations of many, Indian women’s cricket could see a huge filip.