WPL reshaping Indian women’s cricket: Kapp

South African all-rounder Marizanne Kapp is backing a stronger showing from Delhi Capitals in this season’s Women’s Premier League (WPL), with the side set to play back-to-back matches from January 10 against Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Giants.

Kapp will return to the DY Patil Stadium for the WPL, the venue where South Africa played their first-ever ICC Women’s World Cup final and finished as runners-up to hosts India. “It will be an emotional moment, but we can’t go back and change the result,” said the 36-year-old. She also talks high about India winning the World Cup and WPL reshaping the Indian women’s cricket. “Such leagues are very important, especially when the Indian team have now won the World Cup. The standard of the upcoming of the WPL will surely get a big boost with the result. This already shows you what an impact it’s had, not only on women’s cricket,” she added.

Reflecting on leadership changes at Delhi Capitals, Kapp said new skipper Jemimah Rodrigues can guide the side to their maiden WPL title after three successive final defeats. “She is capable of handling pressure. It’s a big responsibility to carry forward the legacy Meg Lanning created in the first three seasons. It will be exciting to play under her, given her jolly nature,” Kapp said.

While talking about her own game, she said: “My game would never have grown the way it has if it wasn’t for these leagues. Youngsters coming through now, a lot of that is thanks to leagues like the WPL. I believe, I have changed myself over the years, indulging more into fitness and contributing more towards the team. I believe, with each passing match, a player learns how to react, contribute and find the winning way for the team,” added the seasoned player, who featured in 24 WPL matches, scoring 362 runs and taking 28 wickets.