Bengaluru: On the back of an incredible run to the final of the Women’s World Cup 2017, governments and cricket boards alike have been quick to acknowledge the sterling performance of the Indian team.
The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) was no different as it paid tribute to two of its homegrown stars, batter Veda Krishnamurthy and left-arm spinner Rajeshwari Gayakwad, in a felicitation ceremony at the KSCA headquarters, on Wednesday.
In search of its first World Cup trophy, India lost to hosts England by nine runs in the summit clash. Nevertheless, the side is being heralded as a source of inspiration for budding cricketers across the country. “If there is one thing this World Cup has taught us, it’s that women’s cricket has truly arrived in India,” said KSCA interim-president Sanjay Desai.
Both players were handed a cheque of Rs 5 lakh each. Such was the popularity of the tournament that the final garnered more viewers in the UK than the men’s Champions Trophy final, resulting in a broadcasting fillip for the BCCI. The apex body and state stakeholders are now more than ever being urged to provide adequate support to the development of the women’s game.
“We are looking to take women’s cricket in a much bigger way,” added Desai.
Gayakwad, who picked up 11 wickets in the tournament including a career-best 5/15 against Sri Lanka, thanked the KSCA for bringing out the cricketer within the small-town girl.
Krishnamurthy, who came into the limelight after her brilliant knock of 70 against New Zealand in a do-or-die fixture, was thrilled about her first World Cup experience. “It was huge. Previously, we were only playing games for us or our families. And now, all of India is behind us. I’m aware the expectation around the team has gone up, which is a big motivation for us to do well,” the 24-year-old said.
