Photo via Hindustan Times

Fifty years on, the pioneers of Indian women’s cricket await their due

Half a century ago, the Indian women's cricket team marked a milestone by hosting the West Indies for their inaugural official Test match. An audience of roughly 20,000 gathered at the ground to witness the historic encounter, which concluded in a draw after a final-day delay.

Captain Shantha Rangaswamy led the charge with a bold 74-run performance, notably striking the first six by an Indian woman in international play. Her teammate Shubhangi Kulkarni also made a significant impact during the match, securing five wickets in her debut appearance.

While modern players now benefit from professional contracts and leagues, the pioneers of 1976 played without financial compensation or advanced support systems.

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