ICC Women's C'ship's effect on the lesser teams

WHEN Bangladesh women were granted ODI status by the International Cricket Council (ICC) on November 26, 2011, it was a recognition of the efforts put in by the players and their consistent performances.

- GOMESH S @NaviMumbai

However, that did not automatically translate into more matches and exposure.

From 2011 to the 2022 ODI World Cup in New Zealand, they got to play only 42 games, which pales in comparison to the top eight teams. Five of them, including India, had played more than 100 ODIs, and the other three had over 70. It all changed when they qualified for the ICC Women’s Championship. It was based on rankings, as the 2021 World Cup Qualifiers were cancelled midway due to COVID.