Women’s Premier League (WPL) has seen huge growth over the last three years, but the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is not looking to expand the current five teams anytime soon, according to IPL chairman and member of the WPL committee Arun Dhumal.
The WPL committee, headed by BCCI president Roger Binny, had originally wanted to expand the league after three seasons. But the board now wishes to strengthen and consolidate the tournament before increasing new teams.
“To further strengthen this tournament for the present, we wish to consolidate first before we decide on the further addition of any team. There are no plans (to add teams) in the immediate future,” said Dhumal to PTI.
Despite this, Dhumal was content with the growth of WPL at a rapid pace.
“So, in three editions, WPL has phenomenally grown in terms of traction for in-stadium turnout. All the broadcast figures are very, very encouraging. It has also given new momentum to women’s cricket across the world.
“So, we are hoping this keeps growing. And this bodes very well for not just the tournament but women’s cricket as a whole,” he added.
WPL Still to Have Home-and-Away Format
Contrary to the Indian Premier League (IPL), the WPL is yet to have a home-and-away format. Rather, the BCCI has held matches at designated grounds, such as Baroda, Lucknow, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. The most recent edition ended on March 15, with Mumbai Indians claiming their second title in three years by beating Delhi Capitals in the final.
WPL’s Financial Success
The BCCI earned Rs 4670 crore through the auction of the five Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, UP, and Gujarat teams. The media rights were also auctioned for Rs 951 crore, making WPL the world’s second-largest women’s league even before the first ball was bowled.
Crowd Turnout and Future Prospects
During the 2024 season, decent crowd turnout was witnessed, testifying to the increasing popularity of the league. Nevertheless, the main aim is to promote women’s cricket in India and find new talent. Although there is room for further improvement, the WPL still proves to be a game-changer for women’s cricket on both the national and international fronts.
