'Please don't get disappointed...': Sunil Gavaskar issues 'word of caution' to World Cup-winning women’s team

Sunil Gavaskar issues 'word of caution' to World Cup-winning women’s team (PTI Photo)

The Indian women's cricket team marked a new chapter in Indian cricket history by lifting the World Cup last week. It was the team's maiden title, as they finally overcame years of heartache and near-misses. India defeated South Africa by 52 runs in the final under the leadership of Harmanpreet Kaur, finally banishing the ghosts of three campaigns that had ended in agonising runner-up results: 2005, 2017, and 2020.

The victory was the product of years of hard work, supported by the growth of Women's Premier League and the diligence of coach Amol Muzumdar and the players obviously.

In addition to the INR 40 crore prize money from the ICC, the BCCI announced a monetary reward of INR 51 crore in celebration of their accomplishment. Star performers including Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana, Richa Ghosh, and Harleen Deol were also given individual incentives by their respective state governments.

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Amidst the barrage of congratulations and public pledges, cricket icon Sunil Gavaskar cautioned the squad. In his column for Mid-Day, Gavaskar advised players not to give up if some of the promised incentives don't show up.

"Just a word of caution to the girls. Please don't get disappointed if some of the promised awards don't come to you," he wrote. "In India, advertisers, brands, and individuals are quick to jump on the bandwagon to get free publicity. Unless they are official sponsors, most of these congratulatory messages are just self-promotion."

Based on his personal experience following India's 1983 World Cup victory, Gavaskar disclosed that numerous such pledges made to that team were never kept. He expressed the love and appreciation from fans are the greatest rewards, not money or publicity.

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"The 1983 team too was made many promises, but almost all never materialised," he said. "Decades later, the affection of the Indian cricket lover remains our greatest wealth and it will be yours too."

Gavaskar also congratulated the team on their historic accomplishment, adding, "Heartiest congratulations once again. The nation is proud of you. Jai Hind."