- Shamser Khalid
Adani Foundation Invites Urban Women to WPL
The Adani Foundation, the CSR arm of the Adani Group, has yet again showcased its commitment to promoting gender equality and uplifting the underprivileged. Recently, it invited 50 women from urban slums to witness the Women's Premier League (WPL) in action at the iconic Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai.
For these women, visiting a cricket stadium for the first time was a dream come true. Their excitement was palpable as they got to witness the Gujarat Giants, led by Sneh Rana and mentored by Mithali Raj, take on Royal Challengers Bangalore in front of a packed house.
Match Highlights
The Gujarat Giants, led by Sneh Rana and mentored by Mithali Raj, took on Royal Challengers Bangalore in a league-stage match. The women were in for a treat as they witnessed some exceptional cricketing skills on display.
The Giants posted a daunting total of 188 runs in their 20 overs, thanks to a splendid fifty from Laura Wolvaardt. However, RCB's Sophie Devine had other ideas, smashing an unbeaten 99 off just 36 balls to help her team clinch a comfortable 8-wicket victory with 27 balls to spare.
Statement from Adani Foundation
The Adani Foundation's gesture not only provided these women with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity but also highlighted the growing importance of women's sports. The women cheered loudly from the stands, adding to the electric atmosphere, and their presence was acknowledged by the players.
Mithali Raj, Mentor, and Advisor for the Gujarat Giants expressed her joy at seeing the outstanding women in the stands. "There were a few extra voices we could hear from the dugout during the game, and when I looked around and saw that we had some very talented women in the stands, it brought a big smile to my face, and everyone in the team was also happy to see this," she said.
Raj also acknowledged the significance of the Adani Foundation's gesture, stating, "The Adani Foundation's initiative to invite a special and outstanding bunch of women to the game was a very touching gesture. This evening is something that we all will remember with fond memories, and kudos to those who put this together so nicely."
What to Know About the Adani Foundation and WPL
The Adani Foundation, the community engagement arm of the Adani Group, has been committed to strategic social investments since 1996. They focus on education, health, sustainable livelihood, skill development, and community infrastructure, aligning with national priorities and global Sustainable Development Goals.
Meanwhile, the Women's Premier League, a franchise Twenty20 cricket league for women, is in its inaugural season. Also referred to as the TATA WPL 2023 due to its sponsorship, the league is organized by the Board of Control for Cricket in India.
Looking ahead, Gujarat Giants will face off against UP Warriorz in a crucial match on March 20, while RCB will play their final league stage fixture against Mumbai Indians on March 21. With the league entering the business end, every match is critical, and it promises to be an exciting finish to the tournament.
