Virat Kohli Highlights the Impact of Women's Premier League on Cricket in India

Virat Kohli has praised the Women's Premier League (WPL) for revolutionizing women's cricket in India. He highlights the increasing fan engagement, the rapid evolution of player skills, and the high-pressure exposure that the league provides. Kohli notes that the WPL has not only attracted large crowds but has also significantly improved the quality of play among young Indian cricketers. He emphasizes that players are now better prepared for international competition, thanks to the experiences gained in the WPL. This article delves into Kohli's insights on the transformative impact of the WPL on the sport.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 16, 2026, 16:22 IST

Transformative Influence of the Women's Premier League

Virat Kohli has expressed that the Women's Premier League (WPL) has significantly changed the dynamics of women's cricket in India. He noted that the increasing quality of players and the enthusiastic crowds at various venues indicate a strong connection between the sport and its fans.

Surge in Fan Attendance and Engagement

During a discussion on the RCB podcast, Kohli reflected on the remarkable growth of women's cricket, attributing much of this progress to the WPL. He observed, "The turnout of fans this time is remarkable. As a cricketer, I can perceive the change, but when the audience notices it, that's when you realize the game has evolved significantly."

He emphasized the impressive crowd sizes at matches, stating, "In Baroda and Navi Mumbai, the stadiums were filled to capacity. The turnout in Bangalore was phenomenal, showcasing the growing interest in women's cricket."

Kohli believes that this surge in fan engagement signifies a new era for women's cricket in India, where spectators are drawn not just by curiosity but by the high-quality competition.

Rapid Advancement in Player Skills

The former captain of India also highlighted the swift improvement in the skills of young Indian players, particularly their fearless approach and ability to hit powerfully. He remarked, "The standards are continually rising. The younger players are faster, more explosive, and more confident in executing their skills, especially when going for big shots. Talents like Shafali Verma and Richa Ghosh exemplify this evolution."

Kohli recalled his first impressions of Shafali's power-hitting during the Women's T20 World Cup in Australia, stating, "I was amazed by her ability to hit the ball out of the park. It was unreal to witness her power and confidence on the field."

He also praised Richa's finishing skills, comparing her to top power-hitters globally, saying, "Richa's abilities are comparable to any elite finisher in the sport, showcasing her talent beyond just women's cricket."

WPL's Key Contribution: High-Pressure Experience

Kohli pointed out that the most significant benefit of the WPL is the exposure it provides Indian players to elite international competition in high-pressure scenarios. He stated, "The WPL has played a crucial role in raising standards in Indian cricket by allowing players to face top-tier international opponents regularly."

He elaborated that previously, Indian players had to wait months between international series to compete against global stars, but the WPL now offers these opportunities almost every match. "The direct impact of the WPL is evident as players share experiences with international counterparts, enhancing their confidence and skills in real-time," he explained.

Kohli further noted, "In one game, you might play alongside three players from South Africa, New Zealand, or Australia, which was not possible before. This immediate exposure in high-pressure situations accelerates player development significantly."

He concluded by stating that players emerging from leagues like the WPL and IPL are now entering the international arena better prepared than ever, saying, "When players are selected from the WPL or IPL, they come as ready products."