Fresh from their historic ODI World Cup victory, India's women cricketers are set to captivate the nation once again as the fourth season of the Women's Premier League (WPL) begins this Friday. The tournament opener features a blockbuster clash between the defending champions, Mumbai Indians, and the 2024 title holders, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai.
Clash of the Titans: MI's Balance vs RCB's Firepower
The match, scheduled for January 9, 2026, at 7:30 PM IST, is more than just a league opener. It marks a crucial starting point for both teams' preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup later this year. Mumbai Indians (MI), captained by the indomitable Harmanpreet Kaur, enter the contest as firm favourites. Their squad is widely considered the most balanced in the competition, blending international superstars with a robust Indian core.
MI's strength lies in its formidable lineup of world-class all-rounders, including Nat Sciver-Brunt, Hayley Matthews, and Amelia Kerr. This trio provides immense power, depth, and experience in every department. The team's title credentials are further bolstered by talented Indian players like Amanjot Kaur and Saika Ishaque, making them a well-rounded unit.
On the other side, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), led by the elegant Smriti Mandhana, are determined to challenge MI's dominance. While they will feel the significant absence of the iconic Ellyse Perry, RCB possesses plenty of match-winning potential. Mandhana's form at the top of the order is critical, and she is supported by explosive talents such as wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh, the powerful Grace Harris, and the dynamic Georgia Voll.
Tournament Details and Broadcast Information
The entire WPL 2026 season will be staged across venues in Navi Mumbai and Vadodara. Fans across India can catch all the action live on the Star Sports Network for television broadcast. For digital viewers, live streaming of every match will be available on the Jio Hotstar app and website.
This high-profile opening encounter, packed with international and Indian stars, promises to set a competitive tone for what is expected to be the most fiercely contested Women's Premier League season yet.
Squad Lists for the Opening Fixture
Mumbai Indians Squad: Harmanpreet Kaur (Captain), Nat Sciver-Brunt, Amelia Kerr, Hayley Matthews, Amanjot Kaur, Sajeevan Sajana, Shabnim Ismail, Gunalan Kulkarni, Nicola Carey, Sanskriti Gupta, Rahil Firdous, Poonam Khemnar, Triveni Vasistha, Nalla Reddy, Saika Ishaque, Milly Illingworth.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Squad: Smriti Mandhana (Captain), Richa Ghosh, Ellyse Perry, Lauren Bell, Pooja Vastrakar, Arundhati Reddy, Radha Yadav, Nadine de Klerk, Shreyanka Patil, Georgia Voll, Linsey Smith, Prema Rawat, Gautami Naik, Prathyoosha Kumar, Dayalan Hemalatha.
As the league progresses, fans can follow updates on the WPL Orange Cap and Purple Cap standings, along with the full schedule and live scores for all teams including UP Warriorz, Gujarat Giants, and Delhi Capitals.
