Fair play, ‘unequal’ pay

The resounding success of another WPL edition is not merely measured in wins and losses but in the strides it has taken towards gender equality. After another season has drawn to a close, there appear enough reasons to celebrate the multifaceted dimensions of this non-discrimination within the league, unravelling its triumphs, challenges, and the evolving narrative of inclusivity through the lens of language. In the discourse surrounding the WPL, one has, in these two years, witnessed a shift towards a more inclusive and empowering language.

Terms like ‘athletes' and ‘players' have been vehemently embraced, transcending gender-specific labels and affirming the equal stature of women in the 22 yards. Moreover, media coverage and commentary have evolved to highlight the achievements and talents of female cricketers, fostering a more balanced and respectful portrayal of women with bat and ball.

Gender equality in the realm of sports stands as a pivotal pillar, fostering inclusivity, empowerment, and the celebration of talent irrespective of gender. The WPL exemplifies this ethos, serving as a beacon of excellence where women athletes shine on the same stage as their male counterparts in the IPL. From electrifying matches to record-breaking performances, the WPL has captured the hearts of fans worldwide, challenging stereotypes and rewriting the narrative of what it means to compete at the highest level.

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"It is never easy to be a woman and play sports at the highest level. There is no reason to not believe that all those performing on the big stage tonight have at least once in their lives felt discouraged and wanted to give up. But they held on, and that's why they made it till here. More than the physical aspect, it is psychological for women. But the good news is I see a lot of change and potential for women in sports, especially cricket which still remains predominantly male-dominated," Dr. Praveen Patil, a former clinical and sports psychologist at Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA).

As Dr. Patil delineates, the journey towards gender equality in sports is not without its challenges. Despite the progress made, disparities persist in areas such as pay equity, sponsorship opportunities, and media representation.

The struggle for equal pay remains a focal point of contention, reflecting broader societal inequities that permeate the world of sports. For instance, WPL 2024 champions RCB-W pocketed Rs 6 crore for securing the trophy, while runner-up Delhi Capitals-W received Rs 3 crore for finishing second. Notably, the winning side in the first couple of IPL editions, back in 2008 and 2009, received only Rs 1.2 crore less than what RCB-W received as winners and Delhi was awarded with Rs 0.6 crore more than the then IPL runner-up. If this isn't a poignant reflection of systemic inequalities within the cricketing ecosystem, then what is?!

Furthermore, the underrepresentation of women in leadership positions within sports organisations underscores the need for systemic change to ensure equal opportunities for women both on and off the field. In fact, language does serve as a mirror to these challenges, often perpetuating stereotypes and biases that hinder progress towards gender equality.

Terms like ‘female athlete' or ‘women's cricket' can inadvertently reinforce the notion of women's sports as secondary or inferior to their male counterparts. By contrast, embracing gender-neutral language fosters a more inclusive and equitable discourse, reaffirming the value and importance of women's contributions to sports.

Amid all challenges, the WPL continues to pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future. Through initiatives aimed at promoting diversity, inclusion, and accessibility, the league sets a precedent for other sports organisations to follow. In recent years, we have witnessed a paradigm shift in the lexicon surrounding women's cricket, with a greater emphasis on empowerment, representation, and inclusivity. Terms like ‘trailblazers', ‘role models', and ‘champions' are now more synonymous with female cricketers, underscoring their contributions to the sporting pantheon.

In the tapestry of sports, gender equality stands as a cornerstone, weaving together diverse voices, experiences, and aspirations. As we celebrate the success of another WPL season, let us continue to champion the cause of gender equality, ensuring that every cricketer, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to soar to new heights of achievement and empowerment!

The views expressed here are the author's personal views and do not represent the views of Mid-Day.