Table of Contents
Cricket has long been a religion in India, but 2024 marked a pivotal moment for the sport’s evolving landscape. According to a recent report by Kantar India titled “India in Search,” online searches for women’s cricket surged by an astonishing 103% between November 2023 and October 2024. This spike underscores a growing fascination with the women’s game, reflecting both its rising prominence and the shifting interests of millions of fans across the country.
A year of cricket fever
The Kantar India study, which analyzed search trends over a 12-month period, revealed that cricket as a whole remains a juggernaut in India’s online space, averaging 220 million monthly searches. From nail-biting IPL showdowns to international Test matches, the sport’s grip on the nation is undeniable. But what stands out in 2024 is how women’s cricket has carved out its own spotlight. No longer just a footnote to the men’s game, women’s cricket is commanding attention like never before.
This 103% increase in searches isn’t just a statistic—it’s a testament to the passion, talent, and visibility of female cricketers who’ve been breaking barriers and inspiring a new generation of fans.
Also READ: Top 3 players to register a hat-trick in WPL history ft. Grace Harris
What’s driving the surge?
Several factors have fueled this remarkable rise. The Indian women’s cricket team has been making waves on the global stage, with notable performances in tournaments like the Women’s T20 World Cup and bilateral series. Players like Smriti Mandhana, Harmanpreet Kaur, and Jemimah Rodrigues have become household names, blending skill with charisma to draw in viewers and spark conversations online.
The Women’s Premier League (WPL), launched in 2023, also played a massive role. Its second season in 2024 delivered thrilling matches, packed stadiums, and a platform for both Indian and international stars to shine. Fans turned to their screens to follow scores, watch highlights, and learn more about their favorite players, driving search numbers through the roof.
Beyond the on-field action, social media buzz and mainstream media coverage have amplified the women’s game. From viral moments—like Mandhana’s elegant cover drives—to discussions about gender parity in sports, the digital space has become a hub for celebrating women’s cricket.
A cultural shift
The 103% jump isn’t just about cricket—it’s about a broader cultural shift. Indian audiences are increasingly recognizing women’s sports as a force to be reckoned with. Historically overshadowed by the men’s game, women’s cricket is now shedding its underdog status. Fans are searching for match schedules, player stats, and even training tips, signaling a deeper investment in the sport.
Also WATCH: RCB superstar Ellyse Perry makes her singing debut with a Kannada song
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
