WPL 2026: A Spectacular Start to the Women’s Premier League
The 2026 Women’s Premier League (WPL) has kicked off with a dazzling opening ceremony and fierce competition on the field, marking another exciting chapter in India’s premier women’s franchise cricket tournament. The fourth edition of the league began on January 9, 2026, and is scheduled to run until February 5, 2026, with thrilling matches set in Navi Mumbai and Vadodara.
What is WPL 2026?
The Women’s Premier League (WPL) is India’s top-tier professional women’s Twenty20 (T20) cricket league, organized by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The 2026 season marks the fourth edition of the tournament, featuring five teams competing in electrifying T20 action.
The WPL aims to elevate women’s cricket in India by providing a world-class platform for elite players from India and around the globe. It combines high-level competition with star power, passionate crowds, and widespread broadcast coverage, making it one of the most anticipated events on the cricket calendar each year.
Teams and Format
Five franchise teams are competing in WPL 2026:
Mumbai Indians Women
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women
Delhi Capitals Women
UP Warriorz
Gujarat Giants
The tournament follows a double round-robin format, where each team plays the others twice. The top teams from this stage advance to the playoffs, leading up to the final on February 5, 2026.
A Star-Studded Opening Ceremony
WPL 2026 opened in style at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, with a celebration that blended cricket with entertainment and celebrity performances. The pre-match ceremony was described as glitzy and energetic, capturing the excitement of fans who packed the stadium to witness the league’s start.
Celebrity Highlights
Jacqueline Fernandez, a Bollywood actress, delivered an energetic dance performance, wowing the crowd with her moves and stage presence.
Yo Yo Honey Singh, a popular singer and rapper, brought infectious energy with his live renditions of hit tracks like Blue Eyes, Lungi Dance, and Party All Night, electrifying the audience.
Harnaaz Sandhu, Miss Universe 2021, also featured in the celebrations, adding to the star power on display.
The performances created a carnival-like atmosphere that celebrated not just sport but entertainment, culture, and the fast-growing appeal of women’s cricket in India.
Action on the Field
Following the spectacular opening festivities, the cricketing action began with defending champions Mumbai Indians Women taking on Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women in the first match of the season. The match showcased some exciting performances right from the start, reflecting the competitive intensity expected throughout the tournament.
In other news, teams like UP Warriorz and Gujarat Giants are gearing up for their own clashes, aiming to build early momentum in the season and challenge the more established sides.
Meanwhile, the Meg Lanning era has begun for the UP Warriorz, who are charting a fresh path under the experienced captain’s leadership.
Broadcast and Coverage
Fans across India and worldwide can watch WPL 2026 matches through live streaming and TV telecasts, with details available on major sports networks and digital platforms. The widespread availability ensures that supporters don’t miss a moment of the action.
Why WPL Matters
Since its inception, the Women’s Premier League has played a pivotal role in raising the profile of women’s cricket, boosting participation, and inspiring a new generation of fans and athletes. WPL continues to attract international stars, elevate local talent, and provide thrilling cricket that rivals any major global women’s sporting event.
Beyond the boundary ropes, WPL brings together sport and entertainment, creating an inclusive and vibrant experience for fans of all ages—a factor evident from the electric opening ceremony of the 2026 season.
Looking Ahead
With several weeks of high-octane T20 cricket yet to unfold in WPL 2026, fans can expect fierce rivalries, breakout performances from young stars, and unforgettable moments on and off the field. The league not only showcases elite women’s cricket but also continues to grow the sport’s reach and impact in India and beyond.
