As the nation celebrates India’s historic ICC Women’s World Cup victory, Women's Premier League ( WPL ) Governing Council chairman Jayesh George has credited former BCCI secretary Jay Shah ’s visionary leadership for transforming women’s cricket in India into a powerhouse of talent.

“As India celebrates our women as world champions, it’s important to recognise the vision that led to this amazing, confident team pulling off an incredible win,” George told TimesofIndia.com.


George highlighted how the equal-pay decision in 2022 marked a cultural shift within Indian cricket. “Jay Shah’s equal-pay decision in 2022 set the tone, making parity a practice, not a promise,” he said.

George said the WPL provided India’s athletes with a world-class platform to hone their skills and gain professional exposure. “While the WPL gave our athletes a world-class stage and resources, the introduction of age-group tournaments and red-ball cricket domestically brought in depth and a platform where women players were moulded for the big matches,” he added.

Applauding the fearless brand of cricket displayed by Harmanpreet Kaur ’s team, George said, “The outcome is visible today with the team giving a fearless performance on the pitch even as enthusiastic fans packed the stadium.”

He also highlighted that the women’s cricket has now become a legitimate career choice for thousands. “Cricket is now not just a dream but a reality for thousands of women who want to play the game. Jay’s vision and persistence have ensured that women cricketers today stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the men.” “Cricket is now not just a dream but a reality for thousands of women who want to play the game. Jay’s vision and persistence have ensured that women cricketers today stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the men.”