BCCI shortlists venues for Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025

He Women’s Premier League (WPL) is gearing up for its third season, with the tournament starting in February 2025. According to a report by Cricbuzz, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is finalizing preparations and has shortlisted possible venues for the next edition.

Tournament schedule and format

WPL 2025 is expected to begin in the first week of February, with the final likely scheduled for March 8 or 9. This year’s tournament will feature approximately 23 matches, including the league stage, playoffs and the grand final. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)The defending champions will look to retain their title as the competition promises another exciting season of women’s cricket.

Locations under consideration

For the first time, the tournament could be held in two phases, with Baroda and Lucknow emerging as strong candidates to host the matches. Baroda’s newly inaugurated Kotambi Stadium is reportedly the favorite to host the second phase, including the playoffs and the final. The state-of-the-art venue has received significant attention for its world-class facilities since it opened last month.

The Kotambi Stadium recently hosted India’s women’s ODI matches against the West Indies, as well as several domestic competitions, including the Ranji Trophy games. To further prepare for the WPL, the Baroda Cricket Association (BCA) will host the knockout rounds of the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy under floodlights to test the stadium’s readiness.

READ ALSO: WPL 2025 Auction – Full list of players sold with their price

Meanwhile, Lucknow has been identified as a possible venue for the first phase of the tournament. The BCCI is reportedly in talks with the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) to finalize the arrangements. Lucknow’s Ekana Cricket Stadium, known for hosting IPL and international matches, is likely to be the chosen ground if talks materialise.

A new chapter in WPL history

The inaugural WPL 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 league’s reach to new venues, giving fans in these cities the opportunity to experience top-level women’s cricket.

The decision to host WPL 2025 in two phases could also address logistical challenges and improve fan engagement. By choosing venues with world-class facilities, the BCCI ensures that the tournament continues to grow in stature and provides the players with world-class conditions.

ALSO READ: From Smriti Mandhana to Simran Shaikh: 10 Most Expensive Players in WPL History

This article was first published on WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times business.