Amid buzz about the possibility of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) being held in two venues – Mumbai and Bengaluru – in February next year, former India captain and Gujarat Giants mentor Mithali Raj believes it will be a boost for women’s cricket if the tournament is held. In multiple places.
“This way, we can also build our fan base as a new franchise. We can also develop a fan base at home. It gives us an opportunity to showcase women’s cricket to a new audience,” Mithali said on Saturday on the sidelines of the auction.
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Last season, the entire tournament was held in Mumbai due to logistical problems. However, this time, the franchise wants to take the tournament beyond just one destination. “If it is in a different city, it gives fans the opportunity to come to the stadiums and watch their favorite players and teams. Players can also interact and create a fan base. It develops and promotes women’s cricket,” Mithali said.
Royal Challengers Bangalore coach Luke Williams also echoed similar sentiments. Recently, RCB skipper Smriti Mandhana said it would be good to hold matches in Bengaluru, and Williams agreed with the skipper. “Playing a match in Bengaluru would be very nice. We will wait and see if there are any matches in Bengaluru. It will be very good for our fans,” he said.
Last season, when matches were played in Mumbai, fans turned up in large numbers, and whenever Mumbai Indians or Royal Challengers Bangalore appeared in a match, the house was packed.
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However, IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal said Sports stars The decision will be made taking all factors into account. “If it can be hosted in a multi-city format, it will be better for the fans and the franchises, because there is a fan base. But it all depends on the amount of time available and the logistical challenges.
However, the BCCI plans to go ahead to conduct WPL installations in as many places as possible to tap the local market.