The Cricket Association of Bengal [CAB] has revealed plans for the Bengal Pro T20 tournament, featuring both a men’s and women’s event, set to kick off in June of this year.
If successful, the women’s event will mark the first official women’s franchise T20 tournament in India organized by an association. While the BCCI’s Women’s Premier League [WPL] exists, there have only been exhibition matches for women alongside the men’s T20 leagues in Karnataka and Maharashtra, lacking the scope of the upcoming Bengal Pro T20 tournament.
“All eight teams will be franchise-owned, a landmark move for a state-run tournament in India. The franchise owners will be announced at a later date,” Ganguly stated. “Players will be paid according to the salary cap, with no financial burden on CAB for the league.”
According to PTI, CAB is in discussions with entities like Kolkata Knight Riders, Lucknow Super Giants, Bandhan Bank, Shrachi Group, and Rashmi Cement to secure team ownership.
“Historically, Bengal cricketers have faced challenges in comparison to those from Tamil Nadu or Karnataka. This tournament will provide the platform they deserve,” Ganguly emphasized. “Bengal boasts abundant talent, and this tournament will serve as a launching pad for these players.”
In a similar vein, the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association [TNCA] has also pondered a women’s T20 league akin to their men’s Tamil Nadu Premier League, although it is unlikely to materialize this year.