Women’s T20 Tournament by DDCA Begins in Delhi – A Historic First

DDCA Launches First-Ever Women’s T20 Tournament in Delhi: A Historic Leap for Women’s Cricket

New Delhi, June 9, 2025 – In a landmark move set to reshape the narrative of women’s cricket in the national capital, the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) has officially launched its first-ever Women’s T20 Tournament, beginning June 9. The initiative marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing evolution of gender-inclusive cricket in India, giving a platform to over 615 female cricketers across 41 clubs to showcase their talent, gain recognition, and dream bigger.

Hosted across three major venues in New Delhi — Modern School (Lower and Upper Grounds, Barakhamba Road) and Guru Gobind Singh College in Pitampura — the tournament is the largest state-level women’s cricket event of its kind and sets a precedent for other state associations across India.

Breaking New Ground in Women’s Cricket

Until now, most aspiring female cricketers in Delhi had limited exposure, relying heavily on private leagues or sporadic trials to prove their potential. But this new women’s T20 tournament, conceptualized and executed by DDCA, offers a structured, professionally organized pathway for young talent to transition from grassroots to state-level and beyond.

DDCA President Rohan Jaitley, speaking at the inaugural ceremony, described the tournament as a “monumental milestone” for the association. “This event represents more than just competition—it symbolizes opportunity, progress, and the rising spirit of women’s sports,” he said. “With over 615 participants aged above 14, we are laying the foundation for a robust ecosystem that supports and promotes women's cricket in Delhi.”

The Vision and Impact Behind the Tournament

The timing of this move could not be more significant. With women’s cricket gaining national traction post the Women’s Premier League (WPL) and India’s strong showing in international competitions, state-level bodies have been under increased scrutiny to build talent pipelines. DDCA’s tournament not only fills this void but goes one step further by ensuring equal exposure and professional organization.

This isn’t just a tournament; it's a strategic cricket development model. As confirmed by DDCA officials, the league will become a feeder system for selectors scouting talent for DPL auctions and domestic trials. By elevating club-level cricket for women, Delhi is cementing its place as a forward-thinking cricketing hub.

Ceremonial Launch: Honouring Legacy and Championing Change

The opening match, played between N.K. Khanna CC and R.P.C.A, was flagged off with a ceremonial toss by Smt. Sangeeta Jaitley, wife of the late Arun Jaitley, whose contributions to Indian cricket administration remain legendary. Reflecting on the moment, she said, “This is going to be a historical movement in the field of cricket. No other state has done this. For too long, women had to wait for occasional private tournaments. This competition will change that and inspire many young girls to pursue cricket seriously.”

Former DDCA and BCCI dignitaries including Mr. and Mrs. C.K. Khanna, Mr. Ravinder Manchanda, and current board members such as Mr. Shyam Sunder Sharma, Mr. Tushar Saigal, Mr. Vikram Kohli, and Ms. Renuka Dua were also in attendance, reinforcing the association’s unified commitment to the growth of women’s cricket.

The event also saw the presence of former women cricketers, lending the occasion both emotional and sporting significance. Their stories, struggles, and advice resonated deeply with the young players about to take the field.

A Platform That Fosters Dreams

Speaking on the broader mission, DDCA Vice President Ms. Shikha Kumar emphasized that the association had finally delivered on its commitment to women's cricket. “We promised to build a framework for young players to grow, and this tournament is the result of that promise,” she said.

DDCA Secretary Mr. Ashok Sharma, credited with logistical planning and grassroots outreach, echoed the sentiment, saying, “Our goal is not just to hold a tournament but to build a culture around women’s cricket where talent is identified, nurtured, and rewarded.”

By bridging the gender gap in cricket administration and execution, the DDCA is ensuring that female players now have a platform just as impactful and consistent as their male counterparts.

What This Means for the Future of Cricket in Delhi

This tournament is not just a celebration of women in cricket; it’s a statement of intent. Delhi has been home to some of India’s finest cricketers, but its women’s cricket structure has lagged behind in opportunities and institutional support. This league is poised to change that by institutionalizing regular competitive cricket for women, involving club-level mentorship, performance tracking, and potential scholarships or DPL contracts.

For young players like those participating in this tournament, it's not just about the trophies—it’s about visibility, credibility, and the chance to wear the Delhi cap or even the India jersey someday.