WPL 2026 Navi Mumbai Matches to Proceed Without Spectators
The Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 faces a temporary change in atmosphere at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. Organizers have confirmed that matches scheduled for Wednesday, January 14, and Thursday, January 15, will be played behind closed doors. This decision directly results from the upcoming Municipal Corporation elections in Navi Mumbai, which are set for January 15.
Specific Match Details for the Closed-Door Sessions
The league issued a clear statement outlining the affected fixtures. On Wednesday, January 14, the Delhi Capitals (DC) will clash with the UP Warriorz (UPW). The following day, Thursday, January 15, will see the reigning champions, Mumbai Indians (MI), also battling the UP Warriorz. Both of these high-stakes encounters will unfold in an empty stadium, devoid of the usual roaring crowds.
The league's official statement read: "The TATA WPL 2026 matches scheduled for January 14 and January 15, 2026, at the DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai, will be conducted behind closed doors, without spectators. This decision has been taken in light of the Municipal Corporation Elections in Navi Mumbai on January 15, 2026."
Return of Spectators and Upcoming Fixtures
Fans will not have to wait long to return to the stands. The league confirmed that spectator entry will resume starting Saturday, January 16. The match that day will feature the Gujarat Giants taking on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
The statement further assured, "Spectators will be permitted entry into the stadium from January 16, 2026 onwards, and all subsequent matches will be played with crowds in attendance."
This development affects the final stages of the Navi Mumbai leg of the tournament. The schedule concludes with a thrilling double-header on Saturday, January 17. The afternoon will see Mumbai Indians face UP Warriorz once more, followed by an evening match where Delhi Capitals take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Tournament Moves to Vadodara
Following the Navi Mumbai segment, the WPL 2026 caravan will move to Vadodara. The next phase of the tournament is packed with action:
- Nine crucial league matches will be held in Vadodara.
- The playoff matches will determine the finalists.
- The summit clash, the WPL 2026 final, is scheduled for Thursday, February 5.
This temporary shift to closed-door matches highlights the logistical challenges of hosting major sporting events alongside significant civic exercises like elections. Organizers prioritize safety and smooth operations, ensuring the league's competitive spirit continues uninterrupted, even if the stands are temporarily silent.
