The much-anticipated WPL Season 2 kicks off as the Mumbai Indians, defending champions, face off against last year’s runners-up Delhi Capitals at Bangalore’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium this Friday. Leading up to the tournament, the captains of the five teams gathered for the ‘TATA WPL Captain’s Huddle,’ hosted by Jio Cinema’s Sanjana Ganesan. They shared insights on what sets WPL apart as a premier women’s cricket tournament.
Beth Mooney, captain of Gujarat Giants, emphasized how WPL has established a vital platform for young players to showcase their talents and realize their dreams. She highlighted the excitement generated by the substantial crowds, particularly at renowned stadiums in Bangalore and Delhi. Mooney expressed her anticipation for a captivating tournament, emphasizing the unique opportunity for emerging players to perform in front of large audiences, ultimately preparing them for international cricket.
Meg Lanning, leading the Delhi Capitals, praised the tournament’s global appeal with world-class players and the presence of experienced Indian players. This combination, she noted, leads to high-quality cricket and provides younger players with a significant platform to make their mark on the sport.
Smriti Mandhana, captain of the Royal Challengers Bangalore, highlighted the WPL’s role as a bridge from domestic to international cricket for Indian players. Drawing parallels with successful leagues like WBBL and The 100, Mandhana emphasized how participating in WPL has boosted the confidence of Indian players transitioning to the international stage. She sees WPL as a crucial platform for domestic players, offering them the chance to shine in the spotlight after a successful domestic season.