WPL 2026: Schedule and Venues Unveiled for Upcoming Season
WPL 2026 Schedule and Venues Announced
The Women's Premier League (WPL) for 2026 is scheduled to run from January 9 to February 5, featuring matches in two cities: Navi Mumbai and Vadodara. The announcement was made by league chairman Jayesh George during the WPL auction held in Delhi, according to reports.
The opening match will take place at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, a venue that recently hosted the Women's ODI World Cup trophy celebration. Following the initial phase, the tournament will transition to Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara, which will also host the final on February 5. This season marks a shift to the January-February timeframe, a departure from the previous February-March schedule that preceded the Indian Premier League (IPL). Notably, this edition will avoid overlaps with significant international matches for the first time.
Past Champions and Title Contenders
The Mumbai Indians (MI), the defending champions, aim to maintain their stronghold, having secured victory in two out of the three previous seasons. The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) won the title in 2024, while the Delhi Capitals (DC) have been runners-up in all three editions thus far.
India's Post-WPL International Schedule
Following the conclusion of the WPL, the Indian women's cricket team will embark on a comprehensive tour of Australia, which includes three T20 matches, three ODIs, and a Test match scheduled from February 15 to March 9.
League Format and Future Prospects
Earlier this year, the WPL expanded its reach beyond two venues for the first time, with matches held in Lucknow, Vadodara, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, closely resembling a home-and-away format. Teams like UP Warriorz, Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Giants, and RCB hosted games at their respective home grounds. However, with the return to a two-city model for 2026, similar to the 2024 season, DC co-owner Parth Jindal expressed optimism for a future full home-and-away structure.
DC Co-owner Calls for Home-and-Away Format
"We would love to see the WPL adopt a home-and-away format. While the caravan style is acceptable, it isn't ideal," Jindal stated, as reported. "I believe the BCCI is working on this. The current timeframe is quite limited, which is why this format is being used. However, I hope for a longer window for the WPL in the future."
"I also anticipate that one or two new teams will be introduced soon. The short cycle of only two WPLs over 14 months suggests that the BCCI is planning to expand the league, which would be beneficial for fans, the sport, and the growth of the WPL," he added.