Former India captain Mithali Raj is all set to come out of retirement for the upcoming Women’s IPL, likely to be played from first week of March. Plenty of activities are happening ahead of the inaugural Women’s IPL and the names of the five participating teams are likely to be released in the last week of January.
The WIPL’s inaugural edition is to be played in March 2023 as the tournament kickstarts after a huge demand. Notably, Viacom 18 bagged the media rights for the tournament for the 2023-27 cycle for a whopping INR 951 crore. Meanwhile, the 40-year-old has stated that she would love to take part in the inaugural tournament.
“I’m keeping that option open. I’ve not yet decided. There are a few more months to go before the women’s IPL happens. It would be lovely to be part of the first edition of the women’s IPL,”
said Mithali Raj during ICC’s 100% Cricket podcast with Isa Guha and Frankie Mackay.
Furthermore, legendary pacer Jhulan Goswami is also expected to play in the WIPL 2023, although she is yet to confirm her participation. The lanky bowler played her last international game against England and announced retirement in September 2022.
“As of now, I haven’t decided because so far, the Women’s IPL has not been officially announced. We are hopeful that it might come in the coming season. Let’s wait for the official announcement and then I will decide. At this moment, I am ending my career in international cricket. I have enjoyed every time,” said Jhulan.
Mithali Raj happy with Viacom Bagging WIPL rights
Moreover, Mithali Raj was elated with the news of Viacom 18 bagging the media rights for the inaugural Women’s IPL 2023. The company bought the media rights for ₹951 crore, informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah.
News of Mithali’s participation will certainly give the tournament a boost as the veteran has been the face of women’s cricket in India for years now. The classy right-hander called it a day in June last year but kept the Women’s IPL option open even then.
Mithali’s presence will sure be a good advertisement for the league. On top of that, it could well be a double delight should former India seamer Jhulan Goswami decide to follow suit.
The spearhead of India’s bowling for two decades, Jhulan’s last appearance for the country came in the away series against England in 2022.
Also read: Women’s IPL: Viacom18 bags historic WIPL media rights at Rs 951 Cr for next five seasons
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