What is Mithali Raj’s suggestion to improve women’s cricket in India?

Mithali Raj's request for a women's equivalent IPL has been turned down by  BCCI File Pic

Internet Desk: India skipper Mithali Raj today said the T-20s and ODIs are taking women’s cricket forward but the more they will play Test cricket the country will produce more world-class players. Mithali has played only 10 Test matches in her prolonged 18-year cricket career.

Mithali backed the importance of playing Test cricket at the felicitation programme which was organized by BCCI. Each players received rupees 50 Lakh each from BCCI today.

The Ashes between Australia and England is the only regular Test fixture in women’s cricket while other teams mainly play the shorter formats.

India have played just five Tests in the last 10 years.

“Test matches are the ultimate test for cricketers, whether it is your temperament, skill or endurance. However, women’s cricket needs promotion and so far it has been done mainly through T20s and ODIs by the respective cricket boards,” said Mithali at a special felicitation ceremony organised by the BCCI.

“As of now, it seems every board wishes to market the sport through T20 and ODIs as they think they are the ideal formats. I feel Test matches should be played as frequently as limited over games because it churns out quality players. If the Indian team wants to play, the other teams should also be ready to play Test matches,” she added.

The Indian women were mobbed by the media and the fans after returning to Mumbai.

Mithali said it feels good to be wanted, as it was never the case earlier.

“I am one of those players who have seen days before the BCCI took over and after that as well. I am fortunate that I continued to play. Today I am seeing this phase in women’s cricket, the reception we have got has been overwhelming.

“I clearly remember, despite doing well in 2005 World Cup, we never had this kind of a reception. It is a nice feeling after what we have all gone through, we feel wanted, feel appreciated for the effort we have put in all these years.

Mithali said Indian Railways played a huge role in giving support to the players through jobs.

“A special mention to the Indian railways for supporting us and extending jobs to the girls. If it was not for the Railways, many more talented cricketers would have quit the game to focus on getting jobs for financial security,” said Mithali, who played her fifth World Cup.