Cricket is loved by millions, from the alleys of Mumbai to packed stadiums in Melbourne. Yet for most of its history it was treated as a men’s game. Social limits, cultural norms and a lack of recognition kept women and girls on the sidelines. That is finally changing, and women are now shaping the future of the sport at every level, from international cricket to academy nets in Dubai.
Why Women’s Cricket Was Held Back
For years, women’s cricket did not receive the funding, coaching or playing opportunities given to the men’s game. Sponsors were hesitant to invest, and international matches were rarely broadcast, so the women’s game struggled to reach the fans it deserved.
The gap started young. Girls who wanted to take up cricket often could not get the same quality of coaching, facilities or match practice that boys could, which made it much harder to progress.
How the Game Is Changing
Funding and Equal Prize Money
More sponsors now back women’s teams and tournaments. In 2023, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced equal prize money for men’s and women’s teams at its global events, a clear sign of how far the women’s game has come.
Professional Women’s Leagues
Women’s cricket was long treated as a side event, scheduled around men’s fixtures. Dedicated leagues have changed that. The Women’s Big Bash League in Australia and the Women’s Premier League in India give players regular, high-level competition and have brought the women’s game to a much wider audience.
Greater Visibility
Broadcast deals, social media and partnerships with sports brands have put women cricketers in front of millions of fans. Seeing successful players on screen is breaking stereotypes and encouraging more girls to pick up a bat.
Academies and Pathways for Girls
Clubs and academies around the world now run dedicated programmes for girls, giving them a clear path from their first session to competitive cricket. Structured coaching from an early age helps young players build the skills and confidence to go further in the sport. To see what that looks like day to day, read a day in the life of a cricket academy student.
Physical and Mental Support
Like all athletes, women cricketers need good physiotherapy, strength and conditioning, and sports psychology. Better support helps players prevent injuries, recover faster and handle pressure on the field.
How SPSA Supports Girls and Women in Cricket
At SPSA, we believe cricket should be open to everyone, regardless of gender. Girls and women train with the same coaches and use the same facilities as every other player, from bowling machines and indoor nets to full-size pitches.
- Coaching for every age and level: girls and women can join our academy programmes or book one-on-one sessions. See our cricket programs.
- Match experience: our teams compete in academy leagues and tournaments across the UAE, including our girls’ team. Follow them on our tournaments page.
- Tournaments at our venues: we regularly host tournaments that give young players, girls and boys alike, a stage to show what they can do.
The Future of Women’s Cricket
The past was not always kind to women’s cricket, but its future looks bright. Better funding, professional leagues, wider coverage and more academies are opening doors that were closed for decades. Our motto is “Raise your game”, and our goal is simple: everyone who loves cricket should be able to follow that passion. If your daughter wants to start playing, get in touch to book a free trial.