As the ’23/24 domestic season for Indian women approaches its end and the international season done and dusted, attention turns to the much-anticipated 2nd edition of the Women’s Premier League (WPL). The squads are set after the auction, but the venues and dates await an official confirmation.
In its inaugural edition last year, the 5-team Women’s Premier League (WPL) was entirely held in Mumbai. BCCI Secretary Mr. Jay Shah, who also is the conveyor of the WPL committee, late last year announced that the upcoming season, will be played in a similar format, with matches across multiple venues within one state. However, the latest reports suggest a potential caravan model, with Delhi and Bangalore emerging as the shortlisted hosts for the WPL.
If the proposed idea receives approval, the upcoming 2024 Women’s Premier League (WPL) is expected to unfold in two stages. The initial leg, comprising league games, is slated for Bangalore, with the Chinnaswamy Stadium hosting the curtain-raiser. The second leg, comprising playoffs and the final, will take place at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium.
🚨 BREAKING NEWS! 🚨
The BCCI has shortlisted Bengaluru and Delhi as venues to host the 2024 Women's Premier League (WPL). #CricketTwitter #WPL2024 via: ESPN Cricinfo pic.twitter.com/zrOJGiOaTg
— Female Cricket (@imfemalecricket) January 12, 2024
Considering multiple states for the Women’s Premier League (WPL), BCCI initially considered Mumbai. However, given the substantial presence of women’s cricket events in the city, the BCCI wisely opted against it. Although Gujarat, with its quality grounds, was a contender, the likelihood now leans towards confirming Delhi and Bangalore as the hosting cities for the upcoming WPL.
The BCCI has provided the five franchises – Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals, UP Warriorz, Gujarat Giants, and Royal Challengers Bangalore – with a tentative schedule for the WPL. The proposed season is expected to span from February 22nd to March 18th. It’s important to note that the event’s venues and dates are still awaiting finalization.
As the lineup of the five teams is confirmed, the schedule for the upcoming Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2024 is anticipated to be unveiled in the next few days. With the WPL just over a month away, the official announcement from the BCCI and the WPL is expected soon, providing more details on this developing story.
(Inputs sourced from Cricbuzz & ESPN Cricinfo)
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