Bengaluru, 24 February, 2024: The second season of WPL has commenced, and one of the most loved teams, the Adani Sportsline-owned Gujarat Giants, is all set to open its campaign against defending champion Mumbai Indians on Sunday. Captained by the Australian run-machine Beth Mooney, the Gujarat Giants team is keen to make a splash this year.
Ahead of the first game, head coach Michael Klinger, mentor and advisor Mithali Raj, captain Mooney and vice-captain Sneh Rana spoke at length about their preparation for the season.
“There’s a really excellent sort of vibe in the group as it has been together for a little while now. We worked through some things last week, and they have come to fruition. So, there’s a keen sense of anticipation for the first game. And I know the 11 that take the field tomorrow night will take full advantage of that and put their best foot forward,” said Beth Mooney.
Echoing the thoughts of her skipper, Indian all-rounder Sneh Rana, who led Gujarat Giants last year after Mooney picked up an injury, said the team is in a good place. “We have had a good experience so far, and the Adani Sportsline team has ensured players have all support they need. The mood in the team is very positive. We have gelled quite well and are hoping for a good start to the tournament.”
In its second season, WPL decided to move away from Mumbai to Bengaluru and New Delhi. Reacting to the move, she said, “It is good that WPL is happening in different cities as we have fans across the country.”
Mentor Mithali Raj said, “If WPL moves to every city, it gives the franchise a chance to develop a new audience, who can come and watch it play. This will only improve the profile of the tournament and the franchises.”
The former Indian captain touched upon her role, and said she was enjoying working with Gujarat Giants in a big platform like WPL. She said, “I have been enjoying this role as mentor, working with young players, sharing my knowledge, helping them stay in a good space and perform their roles to the best of their ability.
The Adani Sportsline team is also doing its bit to help women’s cricket grow in Gujarat. Speaking on the response to women’s cricket since the advent of WPL last year, Sanjay Adesara, CBO, Adani Sportsline, said, “From the point of view of a franchise, we enjoyed the ups and downs and the journey so far. Since Season 1, we have noticed an increase in interest at our academies in Ahmedabad. We are sure the golden era of women’s cricket in India is yet to come, and we are keen to contribute to it in whichever way we can.”
SUNIL Y.B
BANGALORE CITY NEWS 