of Women's Premier League (WPL) is gearing up for its third season, and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has selected two venues to host the tournament. Baroda and Lucknow are in contention, with Baroda likely to host the final.
The season is expected to start around February 6 or 7. While the BCCI has not officially locked in the venues or dates, informal discussions have been held with the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) and the Baroda Cricket Association (BCA). An official announcement is expected soon.
Why Baroda?
Baroda recently unveiled an international standard cricket facility at the Kotambi Stadium. The venue hosted three women's ODIs against the West Indies last month. It has also seen action in senior women's T20 matches and a few Ranji Trophy games.
BCA is keen to host the second phase of the WPL, including the final, to showcase the new stadium under lights. The board wants more time to ensure the facility is fully prepared for a high-profile event.
BCCI plans to conduct the 23-match tournament in two stages in two cities. Lucknow is likely to host the first phase, with Baroda taking over the second half. The final is expected to take place around March 8 or 9.
The inaugural season of the WPL was hosted entirely in Mumbai. The second season saw matches spread across Bengaluru and Delhi. Royal Challengers Bengaluru won the title in the last edition and will be looking to defend their crown.
Read also: Pakistan docked 5 WTC points by ICC for slow pace during second Test against South Africa
Harmanpreet Kaur's NCA visit
In a separate development, the Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur he has reportedly been asked to report to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. She is not part of the ongoing ODI series against Ireland and the BCCI stated that she is being rested. However, sources suggest her absence could be linked to a fitness review at the NCA.
Renuka Singh Thakur is also missing from the team. The BCCI has remained tight-lipped about the nature of Harmanpreet's injury or the treatment she may require.
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