The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is gearing up to elevate the Women’s Premier League to new heights, exploring a multi-city format for its upcoming second season WPL 2024. With Mumbai and Bengaluru emerging as frontrunners, the final decision on hosting venues is slated for December 9. The move to a multi-city format comes on the heels of the resounding success of the first edition, which featured five teams and took place exclusively in Mumbai at the Brabourne Stadium and Dr DY Patil Sports Academy.
Amidst growing demand, the prospect of hosting matches across multiple cities in the WPL 2024 has gained momentum. A BCCI official, speaking anonymously, revealed that the decision is likely to be formalized on December 9, coinciding with the WPL auction day. Bengaluru, in particular, stands out as a strong contender given its burgeoning audience for women’s cricket, fueled in part by the success of the RCB women’s team.
The inaugural season featured franchises like Delhi Capitals, Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Giants, UP Warriorz, and Royal Challengers Bangalore, each contributing to the tournament’s success. As the anticipation builds for the WPL 2024 auction on December 9, a total of 165 cricketers have thrown their hat in the ring, vying for available slots.
Franchises have retained 60 players, balancing a mix of 104 Indian and 60 overseas cricketers. The mandatory squad size ranges from 15 to 18 players, with the provision for six overseas players, one of whom must hail from an associate nation. The auction dynamics reveal the remaining slots and purse for each team:
- Mumbai Indians: 5 slots (1 overseas), purse of INR 2.1 crore
- Delhi Capitals: 3 slots (1 overseas), purse of INR 2.25 crore
- UP Warriorz: 5 slots (1 overseas), purse of INR 4 crore
- Royal Challengers Bangalore: 7 slots (3 overseas), purse of INR 3.35 crore
- Gujarat Giants: 10 slots (3 overseas), purse of INR 5.95 crore
The WPL 2024 promises a compelling mix of talent, strategic auctions, and the potential for growth with the exploration of a multi-city format, underscoring BCCI’s commitment to elevating women’s cricket on the global stage.
Also, see:
Everything you should know about IPL 2024 auction
