Why BCCI Will Not Expand WPL Teams? IPL Chairman Explains Reason

Soumyajit Dutta

WPL Captains [Source: @wplt20/X]WPL Captains [Source: @wplt20/X]

The Women’s Premier League (WPL) wrapped up its third season with the Mumbai Indians claiming their second title, solidifying their dominance in the tournament. While the league continues to grow exponentially, evident from packed stadiums and soaring broadcast numbers, the BCCI has confirmed no immediate plans to expand the five-team roster. 

Despite its rapid success, the focus remains on consolidating the existing structure before considering new franchises. The BCCI emphasizes nurturing talent and stabilizing the ecosystem over hurried expansion.

Why WPL Have No New Teams in Sight

IPL chairman Arun Dhumal reiterated the BCCI’s cautious approach toward expanding the Women’s Premier League team pool. 

“To further strengthen this tournament for the time being, we want to consolidate before we take a call on further addition of any team. There are no immediate plans (to add teams),” Dhumal told PTI.

Dhumal also highlighted the league’s meteoric rise as he said how the league expanded with a sudden boom.

“Within three editions, WPL has grown phenomenally in terms of traction, in-stadium attendance. All the broadcast numbers are very, very encouraging. And it has given new impetus to women’s cricket worldwide. We are hoping this continues to grow.”

WPL's Financial Milestones

Unlike the IPL, the WPL has yet to adopt a home-and-away format. The 2024 edition was hosted across a mix of tier-1 and tier-2 venues, including Mumbai, Bengaluru, Lucknow, and Baroda. 

Financially, the league has been a powerhouse even before its inaugural season. The BCCI earned Rs 4,670 crore from the sale of five franchises, while media rights fetched Rs 951 crore, positioning the WPL as the world’s second-most lucrative women’s sports league.

Road Ahead For WPL

While stadium attendance saw a steady rise this season, the WPL’s broader goal remains talent development and elevating women’s cricket in India. Dhumal acknowledged the league’s untapped potential. “This augurs very well for not only the tournament but women’s cricket in general.” 

With Mumbai Indians’ latest triumph and rising global interest, the WPL is poised to inspire future generations, even as the BCCI prioritizes sustainable growth over rapid expansion.