Mithali Raj – Captain of the Indian Women’s Cricket Team, on Saturday, said that ‘Sports should not be gender biased’ and every person should get an equal opportunity to excel in their career.

Although, Indian Team failed to lift the World Cup in England, but the stunning show of the women’s army changed people’s perspective towards women’s cricket in the country.

Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, Mithali said, “Well, I have often told that it’s good that women’s cricket has changed the perception of the general public and I think now onwards, we will see more engagement in the game. Many more matches will also be telecasted.”

She added, “There are many girls who are opting cricket as their career at a young age. We have some in our side (Railways) too. We can see now, girls enrolling in different academies which is a good thing.”

Mithali, who is an inspiration to millions of girls in the country, is against bias in sports, saying, “Sports should not be gender biased, irrespective of whatever the game one is playing. Everyone should get an equal opportunity to take a go and excel in their career.”

The right-hander added that the girls should never give up so easily, “It’s your dream and you should have the courage to pursue it, irrespective of the resources you get. Everybody does not get the right kind of opportunity or platform; you have to work hard to create one for yourself. It’s always hard work in the initial stages, which, however, pays off and people start recognizing your worth.”

Commenting on the women’s IPL, the skipper feels that if WIPL happens in the country then it will surely help to build a strong domestic platform for the women cricketers.

Mithali concluded by saying, “I think this is up to the BCCI to think about, but as a player, I would say that if such a league takes place (IPL), it is good for women’s domestic cricket. It will further help to reduce the gap between domestic and Internationals, like we have seen in the men’s cricket.”