Sophia Dunkley, England all-rounder wants more Women’s Test matches
England all-rounder Sophia Dunkley wants more Test matches in the women’s game, claiming that the three matches she has played in since making her Test debut have all been thrilling, despite weather hindering the prospects of a result on a few instances. Dunkley told NDTV reporters in an exclusive interview that the level of cricket seen recently in women’s Tests demonstrates how much the game has progressed. She also advocated for women’s Tests to be extended to five days rather than four.
“I’d want to see more women’s Tests because the ones I’ve played in have all been thrilling. They haven’t all produced outcomes, but I believe there have been some very good chunks of cricket and some genuinely enjoyable sessions,” Dunkley stated.
“To be honest, a number of them have been damaged by rain, so you may have had a result,” she continued.
“But I believe it simply demonstrates how far the women’s game has progressed and that we can put on a show and amuse. So, yes, more Test matches in the future would be fantastic,” opined the 24-year-old.
“I believe that five days just increases the likelihood of a successful outcome. It’s extremely disappointing to play so hard over four days and not achieve that outcome when you have variables like weather and whatnot that you can’t control,” Dunkley explained.
“So, yeah, I believe five days would be fantastic for the game, and I’m sure it would result in some entertaining Test matches.”
Dunkley was instrumental in England’s recent 2-1 T20I series victory against India. She hit an undefeated 61 in the opening match and a 49 in the series finale.
“We discussed some of the various plans that the Indian bowlers may have. Deepti Sharma is an astute bowler who excels in the Powerplay. Renuka also bowled really well. So, certainly, we learned a little bit more with each game and put some solid strategies in place,” she spoke about how England dealt with India’s bowlers.
“Obviously, India is incredibly adept with their spin approach, and I believe we did a good job of countering that. We’re pleased with how things turned out.”
The pursuing side won all three matches in the series, although Dunkley thought that in the end, the superior team on the day won all three matches.
“When the dew comes on in England, I believe it slides on a little bit nicer, making it easier to pursue. But, in all three games, I believe the dominating side won “She stated.
“We didn’t play well in the second game, and India took advantage of it by playing really well. But, against a team like India, I believe you have to be on it from the start. So, sure, we performed quite well to come back in the last game, and I simply think the greatest team on the day won,” she was certain.
What about the BCCI’s proposed women’s IPL, which might begin as early as next year?
“I’m quite excited. It would be a fantastic chance for the women’s game and would provide it with a fantastic platform,” Dunkley explained.
“Obviously, if you look at the men’s IPL and how popular it has been and how much it is watched across the world, I think having that for the ladies would be great and a really exciting moment,” she concluded.
