The Mumbai Cricket Association has used the BCCI’s Annual General Meeting to push for changes that span both the development of women’s cricket and the allocation of international matches.
In a letter addressed to BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, the MCA made four requests, including the introduction of a structured national-level Under-17 tournament for girls and more international fixtures at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. The association also sought better communication from the BCCI when matches are allotted to venues under its jurisdiction.
The proposal for an Under-17 girls’ competition is aimed at strengthening the pathway for young female cricketers. The MCA said a national tournament would provide players at that age with a competitive platform while helping identify and develop talent before they progress into higher levels of the women’s game.
The request comes as the BCCI continues to expand the women’s cricket ecosystem, with age-group cricket forming an important part of the development structure. The MCA’s proposal would add another national-level competition specifically for players below the existing senior pathway.
The association also wants Wankhede to feature more prominently in India’s international calendar. In its letter, the MCA pointed to the stadium’s status as a permanent Test centre and its record of hosting major international fixtures.
While thanking the BCCI for matches previously allotted to Mumbai, the association asked the board to consider giving Wankhede a greater share of international cricket in future programmes. It also reiterated that the MCA would maintain the required standards of facilities and match operations for players, officials and spectators.
Another request concerned coordination between the BCCI and the state association. The MCA said it should be informed whenever matches are scheduled at stadiums or other venues within its jurisdiction. According to the association, advance communication would allow it to respond to queries from members and stakeholders and make coordination around matches smoother.
The fourth proposal was less about cricket administration and more about preserving its history. The MCA invited representatives of state associations attending the AGM to visit the MCA Sharad Pawar Cricket Museum.
Located at the Wankhede complex, the museum documents Mumbai cricket’s history and achievements. The association said it would be honoured to host representatives from across the country and give them an opportunity to see the collection.
The four proposals therefore covered a wide range of the MCA’s priorities: creating another pathway for young women cricketers, bringing more international cricket to Wankhede, improving coordination with the BCCI and showcasing Mumbai’s cricketing heritage.
