BCCI Shakes Setup, Does This For The 1st Time In History

A New Era for Indian Women’s Cricket

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has once again demonstrated its commitment to the growth and professionalization of the women’s game. Following a period of rapid evolution that has seen the introduction of equal pay, the successful launch of the Women’s Premier League (WPL), and significant infrastructure upgrades, the board has taken another pioneering step. The BCCI Shakes Setup, Does This For The 1st Time In History by inducting specialist women coaches into its prestigious Centre of Excellence (COE) in Bengaluru.

The Strategic Appointment of Experts

As India prepares for the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, which is set to take place in England and Wales from June 12 to July 5, the focus on player development has intensified. The national squad, captained by Harmanpreet Kaur with Smriti Mandhana as her deputy, will be looking to build on the momentum of their historic 2025 World Cup victory. To support this growth, the BCCI has appointed three former India cricketers to spearhead the development of emerging talent: Nooshin Al Khadeer, V. R. Vanitha, and Sunetra Paranjpe.

These experts will work in close coordination with VVS Laxman, the head of cricket operations at the COE, ensuring that junior and senior players receive targeted, high-level technical guidance.

Meet the New Coaching Team

The appointment of these specific individuals brings a wealth of international experience and tactical acumen to the Indian setup:

• Nooshin Al Khadeer (Bowling Coach): A seasoned veteran, Nooshin brings an impressive record from her playing days. Over 78 ODIs, she secured 100 wickets with an economy rate of 3.57. Her experience in Test cricket, where she claimed 14 wickets in 5 matches, makes her an invaluable asset for grooming future bowling talent.
• V. R. Vanitha (Fielding Coach): Known for her energetic presence, Vanitha has transitioned seamlessly from a player in the ODI and T20I formats to a role in coaching and talent scouting. Her experience with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the WPL will be instrumental in modernizing the fielding standards of the national squad.
• Sunetra Paranjpe (Batting Coach): As a former all-rounder who represented India between 2002 and 2007, Paranjpe provides a deep understanding of batting mechanics. Having played 28 ODIs and contributed both with the bat and ball, she brings a well-rounded perspective to the batting unit.

Transforming the Landscape of the Sport

The landscape of women’s cricket in India has seen a monumental shift over the past few years. Once characterized by limited opportunities and minimal public interest, the sport has emerged as a powerhouse of national pride. The success of the team on the global stage, combined with the structural support of the WPL, has elevated the status of women cricketers to household names. The 2025 World Cup triumph served as the ultimate proof that with the right investment and infrastructure, Indian women can dominate the global arena.

This latest move by the BCCI is more than just an administrative update; it is a signal of intent. By appointing women to lead the coaching initiatives at the Centre of Excellence, the board is ensuring that the technical development of players is handled by those who have walked the path before them. This culture of mentorship is expected to bridge the gap between domestic talent and international requirements, creating a sustainable pipeline of champions for years to come.

Looking Ahead to the T20 World Cup

With the 2026 T20 World Cup on the horizon, the ‘Women in Blue’ are locked in a challenging group. Alongside powerhouses like Australia and South Africa, India will also face Pakistan, Bangladesh, and the Netherlands. The opening match against Pakistan on June 14 at Edgbaston promises to be a high-stakes encounter, and the impact of the new coaching staff will be under the spotlight as the team seeks to defend its glory. The BCCI’s commitment to providing world-class resources proves that Indian cricket is leaving no stone unturned in its quest for continued excellence.