This decision of the BCCI is a landmark one: Mithali Raj on equal pay for Indian women

There has been a lot of discussion on BCCI’s landmark decision about implying equal pay for the Indian women in the international arena, a move that has uplifted the spirits and hopes for countless young women who want to embrace the sport as a career. Former Indian captain, Mithali Raj opened up on how this move can pave a significant path for the Women in Blue.

Talking to Hindustan Times Cricket, Mithali Raj said, “All these organisations and the board members are making great efforts to get women cricket or to make the women’s team of the nation equal. This decision of the BCCI is a landmark one, and it can be a great example just not for the other girls in the field, but other federations can also take a cue from it. And work towards improving women’s sports in general by giving them the right opportunity, resources and facilities”

She further added on how this move is a stepping stone towards establishing equality for women in the upcoming days, stating, “In some way, it is a great decision because it reflects that women’s cricket on its own is now a sustainable career. Parents can now allow the girls to take up this profession, earlier there was no money… In the past five years, since 2017, one can see that women’s cricket has grown not just in terms of standards, but also viewership and the amount of people who are keen to follow women cricket. Women’s cricket has its own fan base. The graph of women is definitely on the rise”.

She also revealed how she is impressed with the way in which the game has progressed not just in front of the lens but behind it too as she said, “When it comes to broadcasting of matches or commentating, a lot many times you see men around during the expert comment section or analysis. Now, it is very refreshing to see many women work behind the stage as well… Having these women around brings comfort and confidence in the atmosphere.”