Evolution of Women’s Cricket in India and Need for Female Role Models

Abstract The evolution of women's cricket in India has been a remarkable journey marked by perseverance, resilience, and significant milestones. From its humble beginnings to its current status, women's cricket in India has faced numerous challenges, including societal perceptions, gender biases, and inadequate infrastructure. Despite these obstacles, the sport has seen tremendous growth, driven by the dedication of pioneering female cricketers and supportive initiatives. This paper explores the history and rise of women's cricket in India, highlighting the comparative analysis of men's and women's cricket, the contributions of prominent female cricketers, and the future prospects of the sport. It also examines the role of female role models in inspiring the next generation and the importance of gender equality in sports. The media plays a crucial role in crafting the stories that the public consumes. The impact of media on women's cricket extends beyond individual players. Female cricketers often receive sporadic and inconsistent media coverage, especially in comparison to their male counterparts. Aditionally, this paper also investigates the role of social media platforms which can be used by female players and content creators to share their stories and connect directly with fans, bypassing traditional media gatekeepers. Keywords: societal perceptions, gender biases, Indian women’s cricket, prominent female cricketers, social media platforms