The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is preparing for an early start to the fourth edition of the Women’s Premier League (WPL), with the tournament expected to kick off around January 7 or 8, 2026. This scheduling marks a shift from previous seasons, as the board looks to capitalise on the momentum generated by India’s historic victory in the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup. The move is seen as part of a broader effort to sustain the surge in popularity and viewership of women’s cricket across the country.

According to early reports, the BCCI’s decision stems from a packed international calendar at the start of 2026. India will host Bangladesh for a limited-overs series in mid-December consisting of three ODIs and three T20Is, followed by a high-profile all-format tour of Australia in mid-February. With little room left in the schedule, January emerges as the only feasible window for the WPL. The upcoming season is expected to conclude by late January or the first week of February, making it the most compact edition yet.

On November 6, WPL franchises revealed their list of retained players ahead of the auction, which is set to take place on November 27. Several key players, including members of India’s World Cup-winning squad, are expected to attract major bids as franchises look to strengthen their rosters. The excitement surrounding the auction indicates the growing stature of the league, which has quickly become one of the most anticipated events in women’s cricket.

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Discussions are currently underway regarding the selection of venues for WPL 2026. While the BCCI is considering holding matches across the home cities of all participating franchises, the final decision is yet to be made. Officials are reportedly exploring the possibility of expanding the tournament beyond a single host city to allow more fans nationwide to experience the action firsthand.

The early start and potential multi-city hosting could mark a new chapter for the WPL. After a triumphant year for women’s cricket, the 2026 season promises to build on India’s World Cup success and deliver what many expect to be the most competitive and widely followed WPL yet. The combination of fresh talent, tighter scheduling, and expanded reach could set the tone for a landmark edition of the league.

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