the Women's Premier League (WPL) Gearing up for its third season, the tournament is scheduled to launch in February 2025. According to a report in Cricbuzz, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) He is currently finalizing the arrangements and has shortlisted potential venues for the upcoming edition.
Tournament schedule and format
The 2025 WPL is expected to start in the first week of February, with the final likely to be played on March 8 or 9. This year's tournament will include approximately 23 matches, including the league stage, knockout, and grand final. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)the defending champions will be looking to retain their title as the competition promises another exciting season for women's cricket.
Places under consideration
For the first time, the tournament could be played in two stages, with Baroda and Lucknow emerging as strong contenders to host the matches. The newly inaugurated Kutambi Stadium in Baroda is said to be the favorite to host the second phase, including the knockout rounds and final. This cutting-edge venue has received great attention for its world-class facilities since its opening last month.
The Kutambi Stadium recently hosted India's women's ODI matches against West Indies, as well as several domestic competitions, including Ranji Trophy matches. To further prepare for the WPL, the Baroda Cricket Association (BCA) will organize the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy knockout rounds under floodlights to test the stadium's readiness.
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Meanwhile, Lucknow has been identified as a potential venue for the first phase of the tournament. The BCCI is reportedly in discussions with the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) to finalize the arrangements. The Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow, known for hosting international matches and Indian Premier League matches, is likely to be the chosen stadium if talks take place.
A new chapter in the history of the WPL
The WPL's inaugural season in 2023 was held entirely in Mumbai, while the 2024 edition was split between Bengaluru and Delhi. With the proposed move to Baroda and Lucknow, the BCCI aims to expand the reach of the league to new venues, giving fans in these cities an opportunity to experience first-class women's cricket.
The decision to host WPL 2025 in two stages could also address logistical challenges and boost fan engagement. By selecting venues with international standard facilities, the BCCI is ensuring that the tournament continues to grow in stature and provide players with world-class conditions.
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This article was first published in WomenCricket.comA Cricket times a company.