BCCI has announced the match venues of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) second season. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has shortlisted Bengaluru and Delhi as the venues for the 2024 season, tentatively scheduled between February 22 and March 17. This marks a shift from the inaugural season’s single city format, held in Mumbai and Navi Mumbai in 2023.
Dividing the Season to Allow for the Best Play:
ESPNcricinfo reports that the first half of the tournament will be played in Bengaluru, while Delhi will host the second leg, including the thrilling knockouts. This strategic split across two venues will ensure fresh pitches for both the WPL and the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL), which starts on March 22.
From Mumbai to a Wider Stage:
The decision to move beyond Mumbai reflects the BCCI’s commitment to expanding the reach and popularity of the WPL. While BCCI secretary Jay Shah initially leaned towards a single-state format for logistical reasons, the potential benefits of two venues outweighed the challenges.
Challenges and Excitement:
With only one major cricket stadium in each city (M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru and Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi), fans can expect action-packed cricket with matches scheduled over 10 consecutive days at each ground. This format marks a departure from both the IPL and WPL’s tradition of having no more than two consecutive matches at the same venue.
Mumbai Indians, the reigning champions, are prepared to rumble:
All eyes will be on the Mumbai Indians, the defending champions who triumphed over Delhi Capitals in the 2023 final. With the talented women cricketers from across the globe gearing up for another exciting season, the 2024 WPL promises to be a spectacle not to be missed.
Get ready to cheer for your favorite teams and players as the Women’s Premier League takes center stage in Bengaluru and Delhi.
