Mithali Raj reflects on early challenges in women's cricket

Mithali Raj, former captain of the Indian women's cricket team, recounted her experiences in a time when women's cricket lacked visibility in India. At an event, she shared that people often mistook her cricket kitbag for a hockey bag due to the absence of awareness about women playing cricket. Raj noted the significant progress made since women’s cricket became part of the BCCI in 2007, which has since improved resources and recognition for players. As the current team prepares for the Women's T20 World Cup, Raj emphasized the need for adaptability in unfamiliar conditions, offering advice to Harmanpreet Kaur's side to remain open-minded and flexible in their approach.

• 6:17 PMYahoo Sports — Mithali Raj recalls era when people mistook her cricket kitbag for a hockey bag