The upcoming Women’s Premier League (WPL) fixtures are set to take place at two key venues, the Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara and the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow, with February as the anticipated month for this year’s competition. Officials from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have not yet officially communicated the venue details and tournament schedule to the five participating franchises. However, informed sources suggest that the third edition of the WPL is likely to commence on either the 6th or 7th of February.
Continuing with a format adopted in previous editions, the tournament will operate as a caravan. This means that Lucknow is poised to host the initial games, after which the action will move to Vadodara. Notably, Vadodara is also expected to serve as the location for the final match, tentatively scheduled for March 9.
The Kotambi Stadium, situated approximately 20 kilometers from Vadodara city, is a relatively new venue that recently welcomed its first international cricket event. This was marked by a three-match One Day International (ODI) series between the Indian women’s team and the West Indies. Following the WPL fixtures, the stadium will further serve as the host for the knockout phase of the Vijay Hazare Trophy, which kicks off later this week.
In light of these developments, there have been ongoing discussions between the BCCI and the cricket boards of Uttar Pradesh and Baroda. These dialogues have focused on logistical coordination in preparation for the WPL. It is expected that the complete fixture list will be made available by next week, allowing teams to finalize their plans.
The WPL in 2023 featured a total of 23 games spread over two venues, which aligns with the BCCI’s goal to promote and increase the visibility of women’s cricket across the nation. An insider from the Board indicated that this approach aims to broaden the outreach and accessibility of the sport to a wider audience. This contrasts with the previous editions where the entire tournament was hosted in a single city. In 2023, both Mumbai and Navi Mumbai served as the exclusive venues, while the preceding year saw Bengaluru and New Delhi take on hosting responsibilities.
This year’s tournament format allows for a wider geographic split, providing fans in two different regions with the opportunity to engage with the matches and support their respective teams. This not only fosters regional interest in women’s cricket but also promotes the league as a significant sporting event in the Indian cricketing calendar.
The WPL has progressively enhanced its reputation since its inception, contributing to the growth and recognition of women's cricket. As the league gears up for its third season, it is expected to further elevate the profile of the sport in India and showcase local talents alongside international stars.
As preparations unfold, both the Kotambi and Ekana stadiums are poised to provide world-class facilities for players and audiences alike. Emphasis on infrastructure and match-day experience is becoming increasingly crucial, underscoring the BCCI's commitment to delivering a high-quality tournament.
On a strategic level, the decision to host matches across multiple venues reflects a broader vision for cricket in India. By decentralizing events and engaging different regions, the BCCI strives to cultivate a more inclusive environment for fans and players from diverse backgrounds.
With the WPL set to unfold in February, the anticipation is palpable among fans, players, and stakeholders alike. All eyes will be on the venues as they prepare to welcome visitors, showcasing the growth of women’s cricket and the vibrant atmosphere that fans contribute to the sport. The WPL aims to not only display high-quality cricket but also serve as a platform for empowerment and inspiration for young girls aspiring to play the sport.
As the tournament approaches, the excitement is building, and cricket enthusiasts across India are preparing to witness thrilling contests, unexpected rivalries, and the emergence of new cricketing heroes. The forthcoming edition of the Women’s Premier League promises to be a landmark event in the ongoing journey of women’s cricket, blending competitive spirit with a celebration of talent.