Marizanne Kapp Advocates for Expansion of Women’s Test Cricket

South African all-rounder Marizanne Kapp advocates for more women’s test matches to enhance sport standards. Having only played four tests since her debut, Kapp believes increased participation will bolster player development. Despite the success of T20 leagues, she emphasizes the importance of test cricket in nurturing skills, making a case for a greater variety of competitive opportunities for women in cricket.

Marizanne Kapp, the South African all-rounder, has emphasized the necessity for more women’s test matches to elevate the standards of the sport. Kapp, who debuted in red-ball cricket in 2014 and achieved a score of 150 against England in 2022, has only participated in four test matches to date. Since 2010, women’s cricket has seen merely 19 test series, with the majority of them being isolated matches between England and Australia.

Kapp articulated, “It is the longest format of the game where you probably need the most skills.” She believes that playing test matches aids personal development for players, enhancing their understanding of their abilities and the game itself. Kapp advocates for an increase in the frequency of international women’s cricket, stressing that more games lead to greater strength and improved performance across the board.

While the Twenty20 format flourishes due to the rise of lucrative franchise leagues globally, Kapp remains committed to enhancing women’s cricket. She is a participant in the Women’s Premier League, recently signed by the Delhi Capitals for approximately $181,000 in 2023. Her experience extends to other leagues, including the Big Bash League, The Hundred, T20 Super League, and Caribbean Premier League.

Kapp noted, “I know a lot of times we complain and say all these leagues are not good for the game because you lose players or their focus isn’t international cricket anymore, but I feel it is so good for the women’s game.” She argues that the expansion of leagues allows for a broader selection process and helps to integrate second-tier international players into competitive environments.

Kapp assessed the significance of participating in leagues, particularly as preparation for the upcoming one-day World Cup in India. She explained, “Playing in these conditions is a massive help… I think if you can have as many as possible of your players playing in these conditions, that will only help your team.” This perspective underscores her belief in enhanced competition leading to team success.

Marizanne Kapp’s call for increased women’s test matches highlights the need for structural growth within women’s cricket. Her experience in various leagues supports her assertion that competitive play, whether in tests or T20 formats, is essential for player development and the strengthening of the overall game. Kapp’s insights advocate for a comprehensive approach to international women’s cricket, emphasizing participation as a critical factor in improving standards and performance.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com