Latest news with #Women'sMaharashtraPremierLeague
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Business Standard
05-06-2025
- Sport
- Business Standard
Smriti Mandhana backs WMPL boost, vows to guide young Maharashtra talent
Smriti Mandhana, a leading voice in Indian women's cricket, has expressed her excitement over the launch of the Women's Maharashtra Premier League (WMPL), calling it a much-needed step to elevate the game at the grassroots level. As the captain of Ratnagiri Jets, Mandhana believes this initiative will help unearth hidden talent across the state while giving young girls early exposure to the pressures and professionalism of franchise cricket. She sees WMPL as more than just a platform for performance—it's a bridge that connects budding cricketers to higher opportunities, including the Women's Premier League (WPL) and national selection. Smriti emphasised that the league brings not just visibility, but also valuable investment, structure, and a chance for young players to dream bigger, with real pathways to success. Franchise cricket builds maturity, says Mandhana Smriti shared that platforms like WMPL can fast-track young talent, as they simulate the challenges and competitiveness of higher levels. She said this exposure, especially at the age of 14 or 15, is a big step forward—one she and her peers didn't have when they started. According to her, 'When owners come with expectations, it helps players grow up fast and learn to carry responsibility.' She believes this sort of professionalism prepares young girls better for the demands of national and international cricket. Investments bringing real change to women's cricket Mandhana highlighted the role of clubs and associations in bringing structured programmes for women. She admitted that her generation had to learn late about things like fitness and match preparation, often relying on observing international standards. But now, she feels encouraged by the way investment is grooming players from the beginning. 'What men's cricket had for years, we are now beginning to see in the women's game,' she said, expressing optimism that in a few years the Indian side will show marked improvement because of such efforts. Corporate leagues are more than promotion As captain of Ratnagiri Jets, Smriti said she doesn't view WMPL as just a promotional event. 'We've moved beyond the stage of seeking visibility,' she noted. To her, the league represents real growth—where people want to invest because they see potential. She pointed out that such events are proof that women's cricket can bring in revenue, and that itself is a strong statement of where the game is headed. Pressure, motivation, and winning mindsets Smriti spoke candidly about pressure, saying it's part of every match, regardless of past results. Her team had won previous editions in other formats, but she didn't see that as added stress. Instead, she told her squad to view it as motivation. 'Every time you wear a jersey, you want to give your best. That's pressure enough,' she said, underlining her approach as a leader. Leadership rooted in joy and teamwork Mandhana stressed that her message to the team would be simple—enjoy the game, have fun, and build strong memories together. 'What stays with you isn't just the trophy, but the journey you shared with your squad,' she reflected. She also spoke against rigid hierarchies, saying she doesn't believe in seniors versus juniors—only in the balance between more and less experience. Ready to listen, learn, and guide As a senior, Smriti said she doesn't believe mentoring is a one-way street. She recalled her WPL experience, saying even seasoned players like her learn from the energy of younger girls. 'You absorb that spark, and it keeps you going,' she remarked, emphasising that guiding young talent also enriches her own game. Looking ahead: A message to fans With the inaugural season under way, Smriti urged fans to come out and support women's cricket in big numbers. 'I've played in Pune before and we've always received great support,' she recalled fondly. Now leading a Maharashtra side, she said she's proud to represent her home state and is looking forward to creating something special—on and off the field—with the Ratnagiri Jets.
Time of India
05-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
WPL, state leagues have shown women's cricket can generate revenue: Smriti Mandhana
Smriti Mandhana believes the WPL and state leagues demonstrate the financial viability and secure future of women's cricket in India. She highlights the readiness of investors and the increasing professionalism, which benefits grassroots cricketers immensely. Mandhana emphasizes that early investment in players, particularly in areas like fitness, will prepare the next generation for success at higher levels. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads The elegant Smriti Mandhana feels the WPL and launch of different state leagues have shown that women's cricket in the country is in safe hands and financially viable at the same will be captaining Ratnagiri Jets in the inaugural edition of the Women's Maharashtra Premier League (WMPL)."I feel, for women's cricket to have this sort of stage is amazing, and the very fact that state associations and also the WPL, the way they have supported it shows that, of course, women's cricket can generate revenues, which is an amazing thing for women's cricket," Mandhana told JioHotstar "And people are ready to invest money into it. I mean, the more professional the sport gets, it's only going to get better, especially for grassroots level cricketers. For them, I think this is just amazing."So, from my point of view, of course, promotion is one thing, but I think we are well beyond that in women's cricket. I see it as people being ready to invest, and that shows that women's cricket is growing and people want to watch it," she Indian women's team vice-captain said the growing interest in the game promises a bright future of the next generation of players."Yeah, I mean, to get that at the age of 14-15 is great. Of course, we got it a little later, so we had to start developing it by looking at international standards."But the best thing about India at this moment, with women's cricket, is the investment that's coming in and the investment they get to groom a player. I mean, very late in our careers, we realised the importance of fitness and all of those things," Mandhana said."But I'm sure the club and the initiative are only going to promote or help them understand more about what is actually needed for the next level, and I'm sure they'll be well-prepped."
Indian Express
01-06-2025
- Sport
- Indian Express
Pune to host Men's and Women's Maharashtra Premier League; to begin from June 4
The Maharashtra Premier League (MPL) and the Women's Maharashtra Premier League (WMPL) organised by the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) will kick off from June 4 at the MCA International Stadium in Gahunje, Pune. The tournament has free entry for spectators on all days. The opening ceremony of the MPL and WMPL will take place on the evening of June 4 and will feature a drone and light show and celebrity performances. This will be followed by the opening game of the MPL to be played between the defending champions Ratnagiri Jets and Eagle Nashik Titans. Two teams from Pune 4S Puneri Bappa in MPL and Pune Warriors in WMPL will also be participating in the tournament. In total, the 2025 season of MPL will feature six teams — two-time defending champions Ratnagiri Jets, 4S Puneri Bappa, PBG Kolhapur Tuskers, Eagle Nashik Titans, Satara Warriors and Raigad Royals. The four teams participating in WMPL are Pune Warriors, Ratnagiri Jets, Solapur Smashers, and Raigad Royals. In this year's player auction, a total of 409 male cricketers and 249 female cricketers went under the hammer. MPL will be telecast on Star Sports 2 and will be streamed live on Jio Hotstar, while the WMPL will be streamed on Jio Hotstar. At the press conference on Saturday, MCA president Rohit Pawar also announced that the association will provide a grant of ₹75 lakh to each district under its purview to develop cricket infrastructure. 'Maharashtra Premier League is a platform that provides opportunities to emerging players from the state. It allows gifted cricketers from the remote regions of the state to make their mark at the national level. The ultimate aim is that the MPL should produce international players,' Pawar added. The Maharashtra Cricket Association also announced plans to launch its cricket academy, modelled after the National Cricket Academy. This academy, to be named after former MCA president Ajay Shirke, will be established in Pune, followed by the launch of four regional academies across Maharashtra. Soham is a Correspondent with the Indian Express in Pune. A journalism graduate, he was a fact-checker before joining the Express. Soham currently covers education and is also interested in civic issues, health, human rights, and politics. ... Read More
News18
30-05-2025
- Sport
- News18
Devieka Palshikaar Appointed Lead Performance Coach For Ratnagiri Jets
Last Updated: Former MI batting coach and head coach of Kerala's women's team now reunites with Smriti Mandhana to boost player mentorship and team cohesion. Ratnagiri Jets, the two-time champions of the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL), have announced the appointment of Devieka Palshikaar as the Lead Performance Coach for both the men's and women's teams ahead of the eagerly awaited season. Ranjit Pande will continue in his role as Head Coach for both squads. Season 3 of the Maharashtra Premier League kicks off on June 4, 2025, with the men's team beginning their title defence against Eagle Nashik Titans. The inaugural edition of the Women's Maharashtra Premier League (WMPL) will run from June 5 to 14, where Ratnagiri Jets will open their campaign against Raigad Royals. A former India international, Devieka Palshikaar, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the franchise. Her coaching career includes impactful stints as Batting Coach of the Mumbai Indians in the Women's Premier League and Head Coach of the Kerala Senior Women's Team, where she played a pivotal role in grooming some of India's emerging women cricketers. In her new role, Devieka will work closely with Head Coach Ranjit Pande on strategic planning, performance development, and match preparation. Her dual responsibility across both MPL and WMPL squads aims to ensure seamless integration of coaching philosophy and training excellence throughout the franchise. Notably, her prior association with Smriti Mandhana is expected to further strengthen player mentorship and foster greater team cohesion. First Published: May 30, 2025, 19:58 IST
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Business Standard
30-05-2025
- Sport
- Business Standard
Ratnagiri Jets appoint Devieka Palshikaar as lead coach for MPL Season 3
Ratnagiri Jets, the two-time champions of the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL), proudly announce the appointment of Devieka Palshikaar as the Lead Performance Coach for both their men's and women's teams ahead of the highly anticipated Season 3. Ranjit Pande will continue to serve as Head Coach for both squads. Season 3 of the Maharashtra Premier League is set to begin on June 4, 2025, with the men's team starting their title defense against the Eagle Nashik Titans. The first-ever edition of the Women's Maharashtra Premier League (WMPL) will follow from June 5 to 14, with Ratnagiri Jets opening their campaign against the Raigad Royals. Devieka Palshikaar, a former India international, brings extensive experience to the Jets. She has previously worked as the Batting Coach for Mumbai Indians in the Women's Premier League and served as Head Coach for the Kerala Senior Women's Team, where she played a crucial role in nurturing emerging women cricketers in India. In her new position, Devieka will collaborate closely with Head Coach Ranjit Pande on strategic planning, player development, and match preparations. Her responsibilities will cover both the MPL and WMPL teams, ensuring a unified coaching approach and consistent training standards across the franchise. Additionally, her past collaboration with star player Smriti Mandhana is expected to enhance player mentorship and foster stronger team unity. Expressing her enthusiasm, Devieka said, 'Joining Ratnagiri Jets is an honor, given their strong reputation in Maharashtra cricket. I'm excited to work alongside the players and coaching staff to cultivate a culture of excellence, discipline, and growth. My aim is to develop a confident, fearless, and united team that plays with clear intent. With Smriti leading and the passionate support staff around us, we have a great foundation to achieve something remarkable. Taking on coaching roles for both men's and women's teams is a challenging opportunity that I fully embrace as we prepare future champions.' Praful Chandawarkar, CEO of Ratnagiri Jets, added, 'Our vision at Ratnagiri Jets extends beyond trophies—we strive to build a sustainable platform for cricket talent. Devieka's appointment reinforces our commitment to world-class coaching as we launch our women's team this season. Her expertise and dedication will be key to our goal of achieving excellence across both teams.' Powered by JetSynthesys, Ratnagiri Jets supports their squads through the 'Jets Club,' a grassroots program focused on scouting and developing cricket talent from underserved areas of Maharashtra. With Devieka at the helm as Lead Performance Coach, the women's team is set not only to make a strong debut in WMPL but also to inspire aspiring cricketers throughout the region.
