WPL to be held in February 2024; BCCI Contemplates Venue Options for the League

Excitement brews in anticipation of the upcoming second edition of the Women’s Premier League (WPL), slated for February, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) deliberating on the optimal venue arrangements for the prestigious tournament.

Arun Dhumal, Chairman of the IPL Governing Council, revealed that discussions concerning the tournament’s venue are slated during the WPL auction in Mumbai on December 9.

Dhumal outlined, “The WPL will be in February, so we will be checking on the venues. Once we meet, most probably during the WPL auctions, we will figure out where it makes more sense to host the tournament, given the logistical challenges and the time available. We will take a call on that.”

Considering the potential venues, speculation is rife about Mumbai and Bengaluru hosting matches due to their robust women’s cricket fan base. However, Dhumal emphasized the decision’s comprehensive assessment.

“If it is possible to host it in a multi-city format, that would be better for the fans and the franchises, since there is a fan base. But it all depends on how much time is available and the logistical challenges,” he stated.

Highlighting future plans, the BCCI aims to diversify the tournament’s venues, tapping into the local markets across the country. Dhumal expressed, “Definitely, we would want the tournament to go through the geography of the entire country, given the diversity of our country. It’s a great opportunity for all the franchise to engage with the fans through the length and breadth of this country.”

Reflecting on the inaugural edition’s success, Dhumal remains optimistic about the tournament’s evolution.

“Once a team set-up is regulated better – in terms of selection of players – I am sure the tournament will be more competitive, which would end up creating more interest and engagement for the fans. For the inaugural season, we had a phenomenal tournament – the viewership through the broadcast and also in-stadia. It was a packed house, so we are hoping that the tournament gets more engagement every season. We are sure, we will have a great tournament, going forward,” he concluded.