WPL Expansion on the Horizon: Sixth Team Not Expected Until 2028
The Women’s Premier League (WPL) is poised for growth, but fans hoping for a sixth franchise in the near future may have to wait. Recent insights from former Indian cricketer Veda Krishnamurthy suggest an expansion won’t occur until 2028, aligning with the next men’s IPL mega auction cycle.
Following India’s triumphant victory in the Women’s World Cup 2025, calls for a larger WPL have grown louder. Many believed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) might accelerate plans to introduce a sixth team as early as WPL 2026 or 2027. However, those expectations appear to be tempered.
Expansion Timeline Revealed
Veda Krishnamurthy, a key member of the 2017 Women’s World Cup squad, shared her perspective in a recent Instagram video. According to Krishnamurthy, the addition of a sixth WPL team is realistically slated for 2028. This timing is strategically linked to the upcoming men’s IPL mega auction, suggesting a coordinated expansion plan across both leagues.
“Sixth team in the IPL, you heard it right,” Krishnamurthy stated. “There is going to be an addition in WPL, but not this year, it is going to happen in 2028. What this means to this mega auction, which will be happening on the 27th of November, is that the cycle is only going to be for two years.”
Krishnamurthy further emphasized the benefits of expansion, stating, “the addition of one team gives an opportunity to a lot of other players… I felt that there has been a lot of good players who have missed out on making it to the WPL, only because of five teams. And this is great news, that this is going to happen.”
While the BCCI has yet to officially confirm these plans, Krishnamurthy’s insights offer a credible glimpse into the league’s future. The alignment with the men’s IPL cycle suggests a strategic approach to maximizing player opportunities and maintaining a consistent auction rhythm.
Recent franchise retention announcements have already sparked debate, with notable exclusions like Deepti Sharma from the UP Warriorz squad. The retention of key players such as Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana, and Richa Ghosh demonstrates the value placed on established stars. However, the non-retention of Delhi Capitals captain Meg Lanning signals potential shifts in team dynamics.
What impact will a sixth team have on player salaries and competition within the WPL? And how will the BCCI balance the growth of the women’s league with the established men’s IPL?
Frequently Asked Questions About WPL Expansion
When is the WPL expected to add a sixth team?
According to former India cricketer Veda Krishnamurthy, the WPL is projected to add a sixth team in 2028, coinciding with the next men’s IPL mega auction.
Why is the WPL expansion linked to the IPL mega auction?
Aligning the WPL expansion with the IPL mega auction allows for a coordinated player pool and auction cycle, streamlining the process for both leagues.
What are the benefits of adding a sixth team to the WPL?
A sixth WPL team will create more opportunities for players, addressing concerns that talented athletes have been overlooked due to the limited number of franchises.
Are there any official confirmations regarding the WPL expansion timeline?
As of now, there is no official confirmation from the BCCI regarding the 2028 expansion timeline. However, Veda Krishnamurthy’s insights are considered credible within the cricket community.
How will the WPL expansion affect player salaries?
The addition of a sixth team is likely to increase demand for players, potentially driving up salaries and creating more competitive bidding during the auction.
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