BCCI signals talks on expanding Women's Premier League, Saikia says discussions to start next year

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is weighing expansion of the Women's Premier League after secretary Devajit Saikia said discussions on increasing the number of teams could begin next year, speaking on the sidelines of Wednesday's auction.

The WPL has operated with five franchises since its inaugural season in 2023, and Saikia told the official WPL website the board would look for ways to grow the competition and improve other aspects of the league. "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," Saikia said.

Saikia said any review would extend beyond players to encompass the wider ecosystem supporting the tournament, including coaches, selectors and other stakeholders. "The success of WPL has positively impacted the entire women’s cricket ecosystem: Devajit Saikia @lonsaikia The BCCI Honorary secretary reflects on #TATAWPLAuction and says that the aim is to spread the benefits among maximum cricketers with an eye on expansion. #TATAWPL https://t.co/oVZCWPtOsO— Women's Premier League (WPL) (@wplt20) October 29, 2026"

On the league's progress, Saikia said: "WPL is one of the big leagues in franchise cricket after IPL. We have come a long way in four years and ultimately we are now dominating women's cricket. WPL has contributed to the success of women's cricket in India." He added that the tournament has provided Indian players opportunities to compete alongside leading international cricketers while giving emerging talent a platform to showcase their abilities.

Auction activity on Wednesday included Australia captain Sophie Molineux becoming the most expensive player, with UP Warriorz securing her services for Rs 1.10 crore. Franchises used the auction to strengthen squads ahead of the next season.

An expansion, Saikia and the WPL message indicated, would aim to spread benefits to a larger number of cricketers and could create additional contract and development opportunities for domestic players alongside established internationals.

The BCCI has not announced any concrete plan or timeline for adding franchises; Saikia's remarks point to internal discussions beginning next year while, for now, the WPL remains a five-team competition and any changes would form part of a broader review of the tournament.