The Indian women’s cricket team has no international commitments until the second edition of the ICC Women’s Championship — the dates for which has not been made official yet — and skipper Mithali Raj says her side could do with more fixtures.
“It will be good if we can increase the number of international matches. Our immediate focus is on the domestic season, which begins in December,” Mithali said at a Zeven event here on Sunday. “The ICC Championship might start next year. There are also talks about a bi-lateral series with South Africa some time next year, but this has not been confirmed yet,” she said.
Mithali also called for a longer domestic season.
“The domestic games go on for only about two months. This should be extended, which will encourage more girls to take up the sport. Seasoned players will also be able to stay match-fit,” she said.
She also spoke of the need for a larger talent pool.
“Women’s cricket is not as big as men’s, in terms of the number of players available for selection. The men’s game is spoilt for choice in this aspect. The women’s second string is not as strong,” Mithali said.
“If we have more India-A and under-23 tours, more players will be exposed to different conditions. This will make them ready for international cricket when they get picked.”
Asked if she would like to compete in the Women’s Big Bash League in Australia, Mithali said: “If I play the Women’s BBL, foreign players will get the chance to see my game and make plans to counter it when I play the ICC Women’s World Twenty20 (to be held in November 2018). I don’t mind featuring in the Women’s BBL after the T20 World Cup.”
The 34-year-old said she believes she has a few more years of top-quality cricket left in her.
“I’m fit, and I’ve been in good form. I will play as long as I contribute to the team. I want to play for as long as I can,” she said.
