The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is mulling executing the player auction of the inaugural season of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) on either 11th February in Delhi or 13th February in Mumbai.
Earlier the Indian cricket board was looking to host the player auction on 6th February, however, the decision was eventually delayed at the franchise officials’ request. One of the key reasons why the franchise asked for a delay in the player auction was that they wanted to assemble their coaching staff before heading to the auction table. The other possible reason for the delay could be the investment of IPL teams in the undergoing foreign cricket leagues.
It is important to note that with less than a month remaining for the WPL 2023 Player Auction, all the teams have already started roping their coaching staff. Meanwhile, the first season of the Women’s Premier League is expected to take place between March 4 and 24.
Earlier, the BCCI confirmed the sale of five WPL franchises at a combined cost of INR 4669.99 Crores. The highest bid was placed by Adani to bag the Ahmedabad-based franchise while Capri Global Holdings made the lowest bid and received the operational rights for the Lucknow-based franchise in WPL.
Besides, the aforementioned two business entities, Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore and Delhi Capitals were also successful in getting a franchise in WPL.
WPL 2023 to be held in Mumbai
The inaugural season of the WPL is reported to be held in Mumbai itself. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is of the view to hosting as many as 22 games in WPL 2023 at Brabourne Stadium and Dr DY Patil National Sports Academy in Mumbai. Meanwhile, the tournament may shift to other venues for the playoffs and final match.
The primary reason behind hosting the entire tournament in one city is to avoid logistical challenges. The players will also be benefitted if travelling is avoided. However, the franchises will be upset with the move as they anticipated home and away fixtures, similar to what Men’s IPL does.