U19 Women's T20 WC holds a lot of promise, can 'transform the landscape': Tendulkar

NEW DELHI: Legendary India batter Sachin Tendulkar believes the inaugural edition of ICC U19 Women's T20 World Cup in South Africa holds a lot of promise and has the potential to transform the landscape for women's cricket worldwide.

The inaugural U19 Women's T20 World Cup is set to begin on January 14 with 16 teams vying to make history by becoming the first to get their hands on the coveted trophy. All 41 games will be played in Benoni and Potchefstroom, with the final to be held on January 29.

"This season is huge for women's cricket as fans around the world shift their gaze to South Africa for the ICC Under-19 Women's T20 World Cup and the ICC Women's T20 World Cup. While the Women's T20 World Cup has been played for several years now, the Under-19 event is a first-time event and one that holds a lot of promise."

"I think this can transform the landscape since a global platform will ensure great learning and experience for young women cricketers. Though women's cricket has made huge strides, there are areas still to be tapped," wrote Tendulkar in his column for the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Friday.

Tendulkar also wrote for more investment to unearth more talented female cricketers, which can happen through the U19 Women's T20 World Cup.

"What is required right now is a more robust grassroots system across the world. The larger we spread the base, the more talent we will unearth and that will have a direct bearing on the quality of the game."

"I feel the inaugural tournament will ensure that happens. Going beyond showcasing the best junior talent of the world, will ensure more investment in junior cricket in different countries, resulting in a consistent feeder line for future U19 World Cups as well as senior cricket. We have already seen this happen as Cricket Boards have either announced or are planning more age-group tournaments for girls."

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