WPL 2026 Kicks Off with Blockbuster MI vs RCB Clash
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has unveiled the complete schedule for the Women's Premier League 2026 season, setting the stage for another thrilling edition of India's premier women's cricket tournament. The fourth season of WPL will commence with a high-voltage encounter between defending champions Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru on January 9, 2026 at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.
Tournament Structure and Venue Details
The 22-match tournament will unfold over 28 days, concluding with the grand final on February 5, 2026. For the first time in WPL history, the competition will be strategically split between two premier cricket venues: Navi Mumbai's DY Patil Stadium and Vadodara's Kotambi Stadium. The DY Patil Stadium, which recently witnessed India's memorable ODI World Cup victory against South Africa in early November, will host the initial 11 matches of the tournament. This leg includes two exciting double-header days that promise back-to-back cricketing action for fans.
The tournament then shifts to Vadodara for the remaining 11 matches, including the crucial eliminator on February 3 and the championship final. This marks the first occasion where WPL will feature a weekday final, adding a unique dimension to the tournament's conclusion.
Significant Changes and Historical Context
WPL 2026 introduces several notable firsts for the tournament. The scheduling window has shifted to January-February, unlike previous editions that took place in February-March just before the Indian Premier League. This strategic move ensures that WPL avoids clashing with other major international cricket fixtures for the first time, allowing undivided attention from cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
Mumbai Indians enter the tournament as defending champions, having secured two titles in the three editions played so far. Royal Challengers Bengaluru remains the only other franchise to have lifted the WPL trophy. Delhi Capitals hold the unique distinction of being runners-up in all three previous seasons, while Gujarat Giants and UP Warriorz are still seeking their maiden final appearance.
Complete Match Schedule
Navi Mumbai Leg (January 9-17, 2026):
January 9: Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru
January 10: UP Warriorz vs Gujarat Giants
January 10: Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals
January 11: Delhi Capitals vs Gujarat Giants
January 12: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs UP Warriorz
January 13: Mumbai Indians vs Gujarat Giants
January 14: UP Warriorz vs Delhi Capitals
January 15: Mumbai Indians vs UP Warriorz
January 16: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Gujarat Giants
January 17: UP Warriorz vs Mumbai Indians
January 17: Delhi Capitals vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru
Vadodara Leg (January 19 - February 1, 2026):
January 19: Gujarat Giants vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru
January 20: Delhi Capitals vs Mumbai Indians
January 22: Gujarat Giants vs UP Warriorz
January 24: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Delhi Capitals
January 26: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Mumbai Indians
January 27: Gujarat Giants vs Delhi Capitals
January 29: UP Warriorz vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru
January 30: Gujarat Giants vs Mumbai Indians
February 1: Delhi Capitals vs UP Warriorz
Playoffs:
February 3: Eliminator
February 5: Final
Post-Tournament International Commitments
Following the WPL 2026 conclusion, the Indian women's cricket team will immediately embark on an extensive all-format tour of Australia scheduled from February 15 to March 9. This significant tour includes one Test match, three ODIs, and three T20 Internationals, providing crucial preparation for the national team ahead of future international competitions.
The WPL 2026 schedule demonstrates the growing stature of women's cricket in India, with strategic planning ensuring maximum visibility and fan engagement. The tournament promises to deliver world-class cricketing action while continuing to develop and showcase the incredible talent in women's cricket across the country.
