The cricket World Cup in the 20-20 format for both men and women are being held in various cities of India this month. Sadly, but as expected, the women’s tournament is getting less than 10% of media coverage when compared to that of men.
I did watch some of the women’s games on TV and was very impressed with the level of skills, application and competitiveness. More heartening to watch was the clash between teams from Pakistan and Bangladesh, two predominantly Muslim countries. The point to note was the women players did not have any attire that was different from players of other countries. I could sense the freedom and carefree joy they were feeling, running and diving around with hair all over the place. Wish all women of the Indian subcontinent, regardless of religion could enjoy the freedom these girls get in the playing field.
pics from espncricinfo
I wouldn’t be surprised if it was this level of freedom that attracted these women to the sport in the first place (beyond enjoyment of the game itself).
You and fellow FtB blogger Mano Singham should team up, he’s another cricket aficionado.
It’s not just that they are not forced to cover their entire bodies that is noticeable. In some sports (e.g. beach volleyball), women are
forcedrequired to wear “barely there” outfits that sexualize them. The women’s cricket uniforms are functional and purposeful, not made to “accentuate” women.Although it’s probably not your sport (unless you live in Ladakh ^_^), the IIHF Women’s World Championships are taking place right now. Women hockey players wear all the same protective gear as men, except for also being required to wear full face guards.
http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/2014/09/28/womens-ice-hockey-olympics.jpg