Still basking in the afterglow of their maiden ODI World Cup triumph, India’s women cricketers return to competitive action as the fourth edition of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) gets under way here on Friday, marking the start of preparations for this year’s T20 World Cup in England.
Defending champions Mumbai Indians, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, will open their campaign against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, captained by Smriti Mandhana, at the DY Patil Stadium, widely regarded as the home of Indian women’s cricket. Mumbai, winners of two WPL titles, remain the most successful side in the league, while RCB are the only other champions.
The tournament will be staged across two venues, Navi Mumbai and Vadodara, and is expected to provide a strong competitive platform for players from around the world ahead of the global showpiece later this year.
Mumbai Indians appear formidable on paper, boasting a star-studded line-up that includes England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt and West Indies skipper Hayley Matthews. With most of their core retained, MI’s batting looks formidable, bolstered by New Zealand’s Amelia Kerr, Australian youngster Milly Illingworth and India all-rounder Amanjot Kaur. The team’s depth could also present selection challenges.
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Their bowling will be spearheaded by Shabnim Ismail, with Saika Ishaque aiming to rediscover the form that marked her impressive debut season in 2023.
Delhi Capitals, meanwhile, will be led by Jemimah Rodrigues following Meg Lanning’s move to UP Warriorz. Finalists in all three previous editions, DC will hope to finally cross the last hurdle. Their squad features in-form opener Shafali Verma, Sneh Rana and Shree Charani, alongside overseas stars Laura Wolvaardt, Marizanne Kapp and Alana King.
RCB’s prospects will hinge on Mandhana’s leadership and run-scoring at the top in the absence of Ellyse Perry. With Georgia Voll, Grace Harris, Nadine de Klerk and wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh, the 2024 champions possess considerable firepower.
Gujarat Giants, led by Ashleigh Gardner, and a revamped UP Warriorz under Meg Lanning will also look to mount strong challenges as the WPL enters another high-stakes season.
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