Mohit Burman, co-owner of the Indian Premier League franchise Punjab Kings, has expressed a strong desire to own a team in the Women's Premier League (WPL). In a recent interview, Burman stated that he would love to expand the franchise's presence into women's cricket, citing the rapid growth and popularity of the women's game in India.
Interest in Women's Cricket
Burman highlighted the impressive talent pool and increasing fan engagement in women's cricket. He believes that owning a WPL team would not only be a sound business decision but also a way to support the development of female cricketers. The WPL has already attracted significant investment and viewership since its inception, making it an attractive proposition for franchise owners.
Potential Expansion
The Punjab Kings co-owner mentioned that discussions are ongoing, and he is optimistic about securing a team in the upcoming seasons. He emphasized the franchise's commitment to cricket at all levels and sees the WPL as a natural extension of their brand. The Burman family, which also owns the IPL team, has a long history of supporting sports in India.
Burman's comments come amidst a flurry of interest from various corporate houses and existing IPL franchise owners in the WPL. The league has been a game-changer for women's cricket, providing a platform for domestic players to showcase their skills alongside international stars. With the next edition of the WPL expected to expand, the demand for new teams is likely to intensify.
If successful, Punjab Kings would join the ranks of other IPL franchises that have already invested in WPL teams, further blurring the lines between men's and women's cricket in the country. Burman's vision aligns with the Board of Control for Cricket in India's efforts to promote gender equality in the sport.
