Two Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 matches scheduled to be held in Navi Mumbai will be played behind closed doors after organisers confirmed restrictions on spectator entry due to the upcoming Municipal Corporation elections. The decision affects fixtures on January 14 and January 15 at the DY Patil Stadium, one of the tournament’s key venues.
In an official statement, the WPL announced that matches on these two days would take place without fans in attendance as local authorities prepare for polling day on January 15, 2026. “WPL 2026 matches scheduled for January 14 and January 15, at the DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai, will be conducted behind closed doors, without spectators. This decision has been taken in light of the Municipal Corporation Elections in Navi Mumbai on January 15, 2026,” the statement read.
The statement further clarified that spectators will be allowed back into the stadium from January 16 onwards, with all subsequent matches played in front of crowds.
The first affected fixture on January 14 will see UP Warriorz face Delhi Capitals, a contest expected to feature several high-profile players and strong rivalries. On January 15, Royal Challengers Bengaluru will take on Gujarat Giants, another eagerly anticipated clash that fans will now have to watch from home rather than the stands. These two matches were expected to draw significant local interest, making the decision a disappointment for supporters in the Mumbai and Navi Mumbai region.
The move comes after advisories from local administration citing security and logistical challenges during the election period. With a large deployment of police and civic resources required to ensure smooth and peaceful polling, authorities recommended limiting large public gatherings, including sporting events with spectators.
While the atmosphere at DY Patil Stadium is likely to be subdued for the two games, the matches will still be broadcast live, ensuring fans can follow the action remotely. Tournament officials emphasised that the decision was made in coordination with local authorities and in the interest of public safety. With crowds set to return from January 16, organisers are confident that the rest of the WPL 2026 season will proceed as planned, restoring the vibrant matchday environment that has become a hallmark of the league.
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