Over the years, cricket, as a sport, has been thoroughly dominated by men. Whether it's the viewership, brand endorsements or prize money, the women plying their trade in the sport, more often than not, fail to get their due. But, while it's still a long way to go for the parity to prevail in the women's game, it's safe to say that the times are changing for good.

The public interest in women's cricket is now more than ever before. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has initiated standalone tournaments for women. There are even private T20 leagues which continue to provide much-needed exposure to female cricketers by playing with cricketers from different nations. And, it has all culminated into the evolution of women's cricket as a whole.

© Twitter/@T20WorldCup

It remains to be seen whether MCG gets filled or not this Sunday. And, for India and Australia, being crowned World T20 champions and holding the coveted trophy will surely dominate their thoughts. But, even those part of the ever-competitive world of elite sport can see the bigger picture to what can and probably will take place at the hallowed MCG.

"I know it's going to be a cracking final. I wish I could be there in front of 90,000 people. I really hope you get 90,000 people. Women's cricket deserves it. It's been there for a long time. It's now the time for us, and obviously women's sport, to rise," South African captain Dane van Niekerk, who endured a heart-breaking semi-final exit with her teammates on 5th March, couldn't have summed it better.

View the full article