Mithali Raj Unfiltered: Leadership, Legacy, and Cricket’s Evolution

Indian cricket icon Mithali Raj has opened up in a candid interview with Wisden, shedding light on the pivotal role of Jay Shah in the rise of women’s cricket, her decision to opt out of the Women’s Premier League (WPL), and the seismic shifts in the sport since her playing days. Raj credits Shah, the BCCI secretary, for systemic changes that have propelled women’s cricket into a boom era, highlighting increased visibility, better pay, and improved infrastructure. Her choice to skip the WPL, she explains, was rooted in a desire to prioritize her legacy and focus on mentorship over competitive play.