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"Beyond The Boundary"- Why Women’s Cricket Still Struggles For Spotlight In India

Sakshi Sharma

Smriti Mandhana and Virat Kohli (Source:@KalaSeth82924,x.com)Smriti Mandhana and Virat Kohli (Source:@KalaSeth82924,x.com)

As the cricketing world prepares for two marquee events in the Women’s game- the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup and the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, there is a noticeable lack of buzz and anticipation, especially in a cricket-loving nation like India. But as a die-hard cricket lover, I had seen completely different scenarios and excitement surrounding the Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 and the Champions Trophy 2025. 

So this muted atmosphere raises a big question in my mind: Why does Women’s cricket still struggle to get the same attention and respect as the Men’s Team in India?

Women's Cricket Achievements 

India’s women cricketers have given fans several unforgettable moments. The 'Women In Blue' have won the T20I Asia Cup 3 times in 2012, 2016, and 2022. They have won a gold medal at the 2022 Asian Games and a silver medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. Yet, despite their on-field achievements, the coverage, celebration, and investment they receive remains low compared to their male counterparts.

In the upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, India will play the opening match against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru. It should be a blockbuster, a home team playing on opening night, but where is the buzz and excitement? 

On the other hand, the men’s team’s participation in any ICC tournament, even a simple series, gets national attention. From sponsored advertisements to viral social media content and packed stadiums, men’s matches are treated as festivals. Meanwhile, women’s matches still battle for prime-time slots and live broadcast availability.

Lack Of Media Coverage

One of the most harsh gaps is in the media coverage. Leading sports channels and newspapers have always used extensive resources to cover every move of the men’s team, while the women’s side often receives minimal importance and coverage unless there is a record-breaking performance or a rare controversy.

Advertising budgets tell a similar story. Cricketers like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma and even younger stars like Shubman Gill have multi-crore brand deals. While players like Smriti Mandhana and Shefali Verma have growing brand presence, however, the scale is nowhere close.

Gender Biases Still Exist In Cricket? 

With so much development and big talk going around, India’s cricketing culture is still influenced by traditional gender roles. A young boy picking up a bat is encouraged with dreams of being the next Sachin, Dhoni or Kohli. A girl doing the same often has to fight before facing judgment on the field.

In an interview, Mithali Raj once stated, “We’re constantly having to prove why we deserve the same recognition. Our achievements are seen as exceptions, not the norm.”

Change is Happening - But Slowly?

Credit must be given where it is due. The launch of the WPL in 2023 marked a significant milestone that gave Women's Cricket its much-needed importance in India. Packed stadiums for WPL and good viewership in the league hence proved that India will watch women’s cricket - if it is marketed, supported, and celebrated with the same energy as the men’s game.

The BCCI has also introduced equal match fees for male and female cricketers in international matches, marking a progressive step toward pay parity. However, domestic structures and overall annual contracts still reflect disparities.

In my opinion, to bring equality, the first and foremost thing that should be improved is media accountability. Leading platforms must actively highlight and promote Women’s cricket. 

The second thing that should be considered is proper sponsorship and branding for Women's Cricket. The brands need to view women cricketers as valuable ambassadors, not as checkbox inclusions. And lastly, changes and equal investment should be made at the grassroots level. 

The Last Say

Women’s cricket in India is no longer a 'developing story'. It has matured into a passionate sport that deserves its due and respect. As fans and cricket lovers, the onus is on all of us to change the narrative and treat women’s cricket not as an alternative but as equal to men's cricket. 

In a nation where 'Cricket is considered as an Religion', there should be no disparity. A good shot from Smriti Mandhana should be enjoyed and cheered as loud as one from Virat Kohli.