BCCI Mulls Adding Teams to Women’s Premier League from 2028, Says Secretary Devajit Saikia

Background

• The Women’s Premier League (WPL) launched in 2023 with five franchise teams.
• The upcoming 2027 edition is slated for 14 January – 7 February 2028 (dates announced by the BCCI) and will be held in Kochi.
• The 2027 player auction saw about 150 players register, but only 27 were picked for the five squads, leaving many aspirants without a contract.

BCCI’s Expansion Outlook

• Secretary Devajit Saikia told the press that the board will discuss expanding the league after the 2027 auction.
• He highlighted the disparity between the player pool and the limited roster spots: “There are about 150 players who are in the fray here and hardly 27 we had to take but still so many players were left out.”
• Saikia indicated that “from next year, definitely we will have to do some brainstorming sessions to increase the number of teams as well as in other areas where we can improve.”
• While no exact figure was given, the secretary suggested adding “one or two teams” and increasing player budgets to broaden opportunities for domestic talent, coaches, selectors and other stakeholders.

Practical Implications

• More franchises would mean a larger player draft, potentially allowing 50‑60 players to be contracted instead of the current 27.
• Higher budgets could raise salary caps, making the league more attractive for emerging stars and encouraging investment from new owners.
• Expansion could also create additional coaching and support‑staff positions, strengthening the overall ecosystem of women’s cricket in India.
• The move may align the WPL more closely with the men’s IPL model, where franchise numbers have grown over time.

Recent Positive Signals

• Saikia praised Delhi Capitals for signing 15‑year‑old uncapped all‑rounder Uma Kashvi for ₹10 lakh, calling it “a success” and a positive step for young talent.
• He credited the WPL’s existence for enhancing India’s performance on the world stage, noting the national team’s ODI World Cup win last year as evidence of the league’s impact.

How to Verify the Announcement

• The BCCI is expected to release an official press statement or board meeting minutes outlining any concrete expansion plan.
• Follow the BCCI’s verified social media channels and the WPL’s official website for updates on franchise applications, budget revisions, and schedule changes.
• Media outlets such as The Times of India, IANS, and other reputable sports news services will likely report on any formal decision once the board finalises its deliberations.

Outlook

• If the BCCI proceeds with adding one or two new teams, the league could expand to six or seven franchises by the 2028 season.
• Such growth would increase playing opportunities, potentially boost the talent pipeline for the Indian women’s national side and enhance the commercial appeal of the WPL.
• Stakeholders—including players, coaches, sponsors, and broadcasters—should monitor forthcoming BCCI communications for definitive details.

--- *The information in this article is drawn from statements made by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia as reported by The Times of India (via IANS). No additional speculation beyond the quoted remarks has been added.*