Fourth WPL launches World Cup build-up with star-studded squads and fierce rivalries
Navi Mumbai
Fresh from India’s historic maiden ODI World Cup triumph, the country’s women cricketers return to competitive action as the fourth Women’s Premier League (WPL) begins here on Friday, marking the start of preparations for this year’s T20 World Cup.
Defending champions and two-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI), led by Harmanpreet Kaur, will open the tournament against the only other title-winning side, Smriti Mandhana’s Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), at the DY Patil Stadium — regarded as the home of Indian women’s cricket. The WPL will be held in two phases across Navi Mumbai and Vadodara.
On paper, MI appear the most formidable unit. Alongside Harmanpreet, they boast England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt and West Indies skipper Hayley Matthews, giving the side enviable balance and leadership. With most of their core retained, MI’s batting depth is strengthened by Amelia Kerr, Australia’s Milly Illingworth and India’s Amanjot Kaur. Shabnim Ismail spearheads the bowling, while Saika Ishaque looks to rediscover her best form after a challenging period.
Delhi Capitals enter the season under new leadership, with Jemimah Rodrigues taking over the captaincy following Meg Lanning’s move to UP Warriorz. Despite losing all three previous finals, DC possess a squad capable of going all the way. Shafali Verma, Laura Wolvaardt, Marizanne Kapp and Alana King form a strong core, though Annabel Sutherland’s withdrawal has slightly dented their firepower.
RCB, champions in 2024, will rely heavily on Mandhana’s leadership and runs at the top, especially in the absence of Ellyse Perry. Georgia Voll, Grace Harris, Nadine de Klerk and the explosive Richa Ghosh provide batting depth, while a varied bowling attack adds strength.
Gujarat Giants, led by Ashleigh Gardner, and a revamped UP Warriorz under Meg Lanning also remain in contention, ensuring a tightly contested WPL as teams fine-tune combinations ahead of the global showpiece later this year.
