CRICKET-WOMEN-'Ambitious plans' in pipeline for women's game: Bascombe.

Newly appointed Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, said there were 'ambitious plans and programs' in the pipeline to invigorate women's cricket, after overseeing the launch of the inaugural Women's Cricket Academy.

In a statement Thursday, Cricket West Indies said the academy got underway last month at Coolidge Cricket Ground here, terming the development as 'a significant milestone for women's cricket in the region.'

The regional governing body said the main goal of the academy would be the 'nurturing and developing' of talent across the region.

'This move aligns with Cricket West Indies' commitment to fostering the growth of women's cricket and investing in the development of players at all levels,' Bascombe said.

'We have ambitious plans and programs lined up to ensure sustained growth in women's cricket.

'Our investment in talent development and coaching will create a robust foundation for the future success of our women cricketers.

'Our approach is to incrementally seek to level the playing field, and we have started this process in earnest in other key areas.'

Only recently, CWI announced significant increases in prize money for the women's tournaments, as part of an overall boost in payouts for all regional competitions.

Additionally, the Dr Kishore Shallow-led administration moved to align the women's international travel with their male counterparts, instituting a new policy that will see the side flying business class for long haul trips.

Bascombe, who replaced...