From hardship to history: Shantha Rangaswamy reflects on India Women’s journey to World Cup Glory

As India gears up to face South Africa in the ODI World Cup final at the DY Patil Stadium on Sunday, former India captain Shantha Rangaswamy has taken a nostalgic look back at the humble beginnings of women’s cricket in the country.

Rangaswamy, India’s first women’s cricket captain, who played between 1976 and 1991, recalled the early struggles when players had little to no support. 

“We used to travel in unreserved coaches, sleep on dormitory floors, and carry our own bedding and kits. But our love for the game kept us going,” she shared in an interview with PTI.

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A Journey Built on Sacrifice

Those early players laid the groundwork for what women’s cricket in India has become today. Rangaswamy expressed joy at how the current generation, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, enjoys the facilities and respect they once dreamed of. 
“The proof of the pudding is in the eating, the results are showing now,” she said proudly.

A New Era of Empowerment

The transformation of women’s cricket has been remarkable, especially after BCCI’s decision to introduce equal match fees and launch the Women’s Premier League (WPL) in 2023. Rangaswamy credited Jay Shah for bringing reforms that have elevated the women’s game.

A Legacy That Inspires

India’s women have reached the World Cup final twice before in 2005 and 2017. A win on Sunday would not just be historic, but symbolic a victory for every woman who once carried her cricket dreams on her back.

From floor mats to global glory Indian women’s cricket has truly come full circle.