The excitement around WPL 2026 is building as Mumbai Indians prepare to defend their crown. Women’s cricket is expected to make a swift return to the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai — the same venue that recently hosted the memorable Women’s World Cup final. This iconic ground is now poised to host the opening leg of WPL , reaffirming its reputation as a favourite among India’s top women cricketers.
Mumbai & Baroda Finalised as Host Cities for WPL 2026
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has narrowed down the host cities for Women’s Premier League 2026, with Mumbai and Baroda leading the way. Although formal communication is still pending, informal discussions have strongly indicated that these two cities will stage the entirety of Women’s Premier League 2026. The official announcement is expected during the WPL auction in New Delhi on November 27.
Previously, four cities were under consideration — Lucknow, Bengaluru, Baroda, and Mumbai — but the BCCI appears set to continue the format used during last season, ensuring a smooth operational structure for Women’s Premier League.
If planning proceeds as expected, Baroda will take charge of the second phase of WPL 2026, with the Kotambi Stadium set to host both the latter matches and the grand finale. The Baroda leg of WPL 2026 is likely to begin around January 16, following the men’s ODI between India and New Zealand scheduled on January 11.
Hosting key knockout fixtures will provide Baroda an excellent opportunity to showcase its facilities and atmosphere during the climax of WPL.
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WPL 2026 Scheduled From January 7 to February 3
Though not officially confirmed, the tentative window for WPL 2026 is from January 7 to February 3. The tournament’s shift to a January slot is deliberate and strategic:
- The men’s T20 World Cup will begin in early February, and the January schedule ensures WPL 2026 avoids any overlap.
- January has been positioned as the long-term window for WPL 2026 across global cricket calendars to avoid clashes with other women’s leagues.
- It aligns with the ICC Future Tours Programme (FTP) and secures maximum international player availability.
This new window strengthens the identity and global visibility of WPL.
Mumbai Indians, the reigning champions, will enter WPL aiming to retain their crown after defeating Delhi Capitals in the previous season’s final at the Brabourne Stadium. With WPL 2026 returning to Mumbai for its opening leg, the team could benefit from familiar conditions and strong home support.