WPL 2026 likely to be played in Mumbai and Baroda from January 7 to February 3

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is understood to have zeroed in on the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai and the Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara as the venues for WPL 2026. The fourth installment of the marquee women’s 20-over tournament could be played from January 7 to February 3.

The stadium in Navi Mumbai is set to kickstart the season and host the first leg of the tournament. The second leg in Baroda is expected to start on January 16. As per a Cricbuzz report, Baroda will also host the final.

While the discussions for the venues were on behind the scenes, the BCCI has not yet issued an official notice to the owners of the five franchises. A formal message is be expected to be passed down at the WPL mega auction, scheduled to take place in New Delhi on November 27. The shortlist for venues for WPL 2026 had featured four cities: Mumbai, Bengaluru, Baroda and Lucknow.

The third edition of the tournament was played in February-March this year. However, this time around, the bulk of the tournament will be played in January, as the Men’s T20 World Cup, slated to be held in India and Sri Lanka, will commence in the first week of February.

Furthermore, January has been officially agreed as a potential permanent window for the WPL to ensure that the tournament’s fixtures do not clash with matches other franchise leagues and the ICC Future Tours Programme.

Mumbai Indians (2023 and 2025) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (2024) have won the title so far. Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals have been the runners-up across all three editions. The retained players’ list was recently released by all teams on November 6.

Disclaimer: This latest news is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.