WPL 2024: Nita Ambani Champions Women’s Premier League As A Platform for Empowerment In Indian Sports
As the team played its final league match at Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, Mrs Ambani graced the event in the national capital and articulated the profound impact platforms like WPL have on empowering sportswomen across India.
Mrs Ambani’s presence wasn’t merely symbolic; it was a testament to her unwavering commitment to the advancement of women in sports. She hailed the WPL as a transformative opportunity for young girls to showcase their talent alongside the world’s best players. “What a platform for our girls to perform,” she exclaimed, underlining the significance of this inclusive environment for nurturing budding talent.
In a poignant moment, Mrs Ambani singled out Sajeevan Sajana, a standout performer in the Mumbai Indians squad. Sajana’s journey from being a political science graduate, with her father working as an autorickshaw driver, to pursuing cricket epitomises the spirit of empowerment.
On Sajana, one of the team’s breakout stars this year, she said, “I saw Sajana getting the award. She is a graduate in political science, her father is an autorickshaw driver and she chose to play cricket. I hope this sets an example for parents to encourage their girls to choose what profession they wish. Not only for cricket, WPL is an example for girls in all kinds of sports.”
Mrs Ambani hopes such stories inspire parents to support their daughters’ aspirations across all sports, not just cricket. The ethos of #OneFamily is synonymous with Mumbai Indians and it resonates deeply with her.
She emphasised the importance of fostering a positive atmosphere where players feel valued and supported. For her, witnessing these girls play is not just a sporting spectacle but a heartwarming experience that epitomizes the MI spirit.
“I have been in cricket since 2010 and watching these girls play is one of my most heart-warming experiences. MI is known to be a family and all I tell them is go out, do your best and enjoy yourself,” she claimed further.
The stellar performance of MI’s captain, Harmanpreet Kaur, hasn’t gone unnoticed by Mrs Ambani. Kaur’s leadership on the field, coupled with her formidable innings, reflects the team’s resilience and determination.
She lauded Kaur’s efforts, alongside the invaluable contributions of the support staff led by Head Coach Charlotte Edwards and Mentor/Bowling Coach Jhulan Goswami, in steering MI towards success.
“I must say that as One Family, Harmanpreet has really led from the front. Look at the last game she played, just fabulous. Our dressing room atmosphere has been fantastic with our support staff led by Charlotte and Jhulan. I think that comes onto the field. MI is One Family and we play as one,” she signed off.
