WPL 2026 Launches Today: Essential Insights on Schedule, Teams, and Streaming Options

WPL 2026 Officially Launches

The much-anticipated Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 commences today, Friday, January 9, 2026. This marks the fourth edition of the T20 franchise tournament hosted by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The season runs until February 5, 2026, featuring five dynamic teams competing in a double round-robin format, culminating in playoffs including an Eliminator and a final match. Fans can look forward to electrifying cricket alongside off-field entertainment.

Teams in the 2026 WPL Contest

This season, five franchises will vie for the championship:

Mumbai Indians (MI)

The defending champions, MI, enter this season with a formidable squad, eager to defend their title after multiple previous victories.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)

Former champions RCB kick off the tournament against MI in what is anticipated to be an electrifying matchup.

Delhi Capitals (DC)

Always a strong contender, DC aims to secure their first WPL trophy this season.

Gujarat Giants (GG)

With a roster of both international and domestic talents, GG hopes to make significant waves this season.

UP Warriorz (UPW)

Led by Meg Lanning, the experienced captain, UP Warriorz will aim to leverage their tactical leadership to drive their campaign.

Format and Structure of the Tournament

WPL 2026 follows a double round-robin structure, allowing each team to face every other team twice. Points are awarded for wins, and net run rate will determine rankings among teams tied on points. The two top teams will move to the final, while the second and third-placed teams will compete in the Eliminator to determine the other finalist. The finale will transpire on February 5, 2026, in Vadodara.

Comprehensive Schedule: Matches & Fixtures

Phase 1: Navi Mumbai – DY Patil Stadium

The tournament kicks off at DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai, hosting the majority of the opening matches until mid-January.

January 9 (Friday)

• Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru — 7:30 PM IST
  An explosive opener that sets the season's tone featuring two leading franchises.

January 10 (Saturday)

• UP Warriorz vs Gujarat Giants — 3:00 PM IST

• Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals — 7:30 PM IST
  Back-to-back high-stakes matches await the fans this weekend.

January 11 (Sunday)

• Delhi Capitals vs Gujarat Giants — 7:30 PM IST
  As the competition heats up, every match counts towards playoff positioning.

January 12 (Monday)

• Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs UP Warriorz — 7:30 PM IST
  A clash of champions, with one of the league's most experienced captains facing off.

January 13 (Tuesday)

• Mumbai Indians vs Gujarat Giants — 7:30 PM IST
  MI seeks to secure crucial points in their title defense.

January 14 (Wednesday)

• UP Warriorz vs Delhi Capitals — 7:30 PM IST
  This midweek match could have significant implications for playoffs.

January 15 (Thursday)

• Mumbai Indians vs UP Warriorz — 7:30 PM IST
  A high-stakes encounter with crucial playoff implications.

January 16 (Friday)

• Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Gujarat Giants — 7:30 PM IST
  An essential match as teams vie to solidify their standings.

January 17 (Saturday)

• UP Warriorz vs Mumbai Indians — 3:00 PM IST

• Delhi Capitals vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru — 7:30 PM IST
  Weekend excitement continues with a thrilling double-header.

Phase 2: Vadodara Leg – BCA Stadium

From January 19, the action shifts to the BCA Stadium in Vadodara, Gujarat for the concluding league matches and playoffs.

January 19 (Monday)

• Gujarat Giants vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru — 7:30 PM IST
  An opportunity for teams to secure strategies before the playoffs.

January 20 (Tuesday)

• Delhi Capitals vs Mumbai Indians — 7:30 PM IST
  Key contenders will clash in this must-watch mid-week face-off.

January 22 (Thursday)

• Gujarat Giants vs UP Warriorz — 7:30 PM IST
  A pivotal matchup that could shift final standings.

January 24 (Saturday)

• Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Delhi Capitals — 7:30 PM IST
  Another crucial clash as teams gather momentum for the playoffs.

January 26 (Monday)

• Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Mumbai Indians — 7:30 PM IST
  A highly awaited match coinciding with Republic Day festivities.

January 27 (Tuesday)

• Gujarat Giants vs Delhi Capitals — 7:30 PM IST
  Teams will look to secure critical victories before the final week.

January 29 (Thursday)

• UP Warriorz vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru — 7:30 PM IST
  A late league clash with crucial playoff implications.

January 30 (Friday)

• Gujarat Giants vs Mumbai Indians — 7:30 PM IST
  A significant contest as the tournament edges closer to playoffs.

February 1 (Sunday)

• Delhi Capitals vs UP Warriorz — 7:30 PM IST
  Final league match for both sides filled with excitement.

February 3 (Tuesday)

• Eliminator — 7:30 PM IST
  The playoffs commence with a face-off between second and third-place teams.

February 5 (Thursday)

• Final — 7:30 PM IST
  The WPL 2026 championship concludes with a spectacular match.

Opening Ceremony & Festivities

Before the commencement of the tournament, WPL 2026 will feature a lavish opening ceremony at DY Patil Stadium, with performances from Yo Yo Honey Singh, Jacqueline Fernandez, and Harnaaz Sandhu, promising an entertaining kickoff for the cricketing action ahead.

Where to Watch: Broadcasting & Live Streaming

Television Broadcast

All matches will be broadcast live in India on the Star Sports Network, providing extensive coverage on multiple channels.

Live Streaming

Cricket fans can stream every match live via the Jio Hotstar app and website, ensuring easy access to fixtures.

International viewers should check local broadcasting details through the official WPL platforms and their affiliate networks.

Key Players and Captains to Follow

The WPL 2026 showcases elite women cricketers from India and abroad, with captains like Meg Lanning bringing valuable experience and tactical insight to their teams.

Importance of WPL 2026

The Women’s Premier League serves as a significant platform for women’s cricket, showcasing talent, inspiring young players, and increasing viewership for women’s sports in India. The 2026 season aims to elevate the competition and build excitement for future international events.

Disclaimer:

This article is for informational purposes based on announced schedules and media reports. Match details are subject to change; viewers are encouraged to confirm details on official WPL platforms before viewing.