As the sun rises over Nagpur, the city’s iconic VCA Stadium in Jamtha is set to witness history in the making. From June 5th to 15th, 2025, the inaugural Vidarbha Pro T20 League (VPTL) will not only mark a landmark event for the region but also signals a transformative moment for women’s cricket in central India.
For decades, Vidarbha has been a cradle of cricketing talent, quietly nurturing players who have gone on to make their mark on the national stage. Yet, for many aspiring women cricketers, the path to recognition has been steep and often under-illuminated. The VPTL aims to change that narrative. By providing a professional, competitive platform for women, the league is poised to unearth hidden gems, foster local heroes, and inspire a new generation of girls to dream big with bat and ball.
This initiative is more than just a tournament; it’s a celebration of homegrown talent and a vital step toward strengthening the domestic cricket structure in central India. In a region where opportunities for women athletes have historically lagged, the VPTL is a beacon of progress and possibility.
The vision behind the VPTL is both ambitious and heartfelt. Adding further gravitas are the league’s ambassadors, India pacer and Vidarbha stalwart Umesh Yadav, and the legendary Jhulan Goswami, former India women’s team fast bowler. Their involvement not only brings star power but also sends a powerful message to young cricketers: that their dreams are valid, and their time is now.
Squads:
Orange Tigresses:
Disha Kasat (C), Komal Zanzad (VC), Sayali Shinde, Sai Bhoyar, Trupti Lodhe, Janhvi Ranganathan, Riddhima Maradwar (wk), Akshara Itankar, Aditi Palandurkar, Dhanashree Gujjar, Ankita Bhongade, Prerna Randive, Nandini Pradhan, Sanskruti Dhande, Disha Kale, and Prachi Puri (WK)
Led by the dynamic Disha Kasat, the Orange Tigresses boast a squad that blends experience with youthful exuberance. Vice-captain Komal Zanzad, known for her consistent all-round performances at the domestic level, is expected to be a key pillar. Watch out for wicketkeeper Riddhima Maradwar and the versatile Trupti Lodhe, both of whom have shown glimpses of their potential in selection trials. The Tigresses’ bench strength, with emerging talents like Sai Bhoyar and Dhanashree Gujjar, makes them a formidable unit.
Skipper Disha Kasat’s valuable stint in the Women’s Premier League with the Royal Challengers Bangalore, where she rubbed shoulders with one of the greats of the women’s game, the likes of Sophie Devine, Ellyse Perry, and the Indian vice-captain Smriti Mandhana, will hold her in good stead heading into this tournament.
Nagpur Titans:
Mona Meshram (C), Mansi Pande, Latika Inamdar (WK), Ayushi Thakre (VC), Dharvi Tembhurne, Gargi Wankar, Aarohi Bambode, Ashwini Deshmukh, Arti Bahenwal, Shangupha Sayyed, Mansi Borikar, Swara Thakre, Saloni Rajput, Ruksar Ansari, Shreemayee Pathak, and Saloni Wankhede (WK)
Under the seasoned leadership of Mona Meshram, who has also had the experience of representing India at the International level, will play a vital role in marshalling a troop of young and promising units under her guidance. She is one of the few celebrated women cricketers from Nagpur. The Nagpur Titans are packed with match-winners. Vice-captain Ayushi Thakre brings tactical acumen and grit, while Latika Inamdar, a promising wicketkeeper-batter, adds depth to the batting order. The Titans also feature rising stars such as Mansi Pande and Dharvi Tembhurne. With a blend of experience and youthful flair, the Titans are set to be crowd favourites.
NECO Master Blaster:
Bharti Fulmali (C), Riddhi Naik (VC), Nihari Kawale (WK), Vedanti Salodkar, Nupur Kohale, Arya Gohane, Shivani Dharne (WK), Tanvi Mendhe, Snehal Maniyar, Yashashree Soley, Gargi Banote, Shraddha Nabira, Shreya Lanjewar, Siddhi Nerkar, Pallavi Jain, Sanskriti Sant
Bharti Fulmali, the inspirational captain of NECO Master Blaster, leads a squad rich in both experience and potential. Vice-captain Riddhi Naik and wicketkeeper Nihari Kawale provide stability, while all-rounders like Nupur Kohale and Arya Gohane offer flexibility in team strategy. Keep an eye on Tanvi Mendhe and Snehal Maniyar, two young guns eager to make their mark. The Master Blaster’s combination of proven performers and hungry newcomers could make them the dark horses of the tournament.
Bharti Fulmali has been riding high on confidence ever since her promising stint with the Gujarat Giants in the 3rd edition of the Women’s Premier League. She scored 133 runs at a strike rate of 172.72 and a sensational average of 66.50 in four innings with the bat, including her maiden half-century (61 off 25 balls) in the WPL, against the eventual champions Mumbai Indians, led by skipper Harmanpreet Kaur.
What sets the VPTL apart is its commitment to nurturing local talent. Each team features a thoughtful mix of established stars and emerging prospects, ensuring that no talent goes unnoticed. The presence of local heroes, players who have grown up dreaming of representing Vidarbha, adds a layer of emotional resonance for fans and participants alike.
