The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering expanding the Women's Premier League, with secretary Devajit Saikia indicating that discussions on increasing the number of teams could begin next year.

The WPL has featured five franchises since its inaugural season in 2023. Saikia said the board would explore ways to expand the competition and improve other aspects of the league, which has grown into a major platform for women's cricket.

Speaking to the official WPL website on the sidelines of Wednesday's auction, Saikia said the BCCI would need to assess the possibilities before deciding on the way forward.

"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.

He added that any review would extend beyond the players to include the wider ecosystem supporting the competition, including coaches, selectors and other stakeholders involved in the league.

WPL'S GROWING INFLUENCE

Saikia believes the WPL has made significant progress in its four years and has become a major force in the women's game. The tournament has provided Indian players with opportunities to compete alongside leading international cricketers while giving emerging talent a platform to showcase their abilities.

"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 said.

An expansion would potentially create more opportunities for domestic players to secure contracts and gain experience alongside established international stars. However, the BCCI has not announced any concrete plan or timeline for adding franchises, with Saikia's comments pointing towards discussions beginning next year.

The league has become an important part of the women's cricket calendar since its launch, attracting prominent players from across the world and increasing the visibility of the women's game in India.

MOLINEUX TOPS AUCTION

Meanwhile, Australia captain Sophie Molineux emerged as the most expensive player at Wednesday's auction after UP Warriorz secured her services for Rs 1.10 crore.

Molineux's acquisition was among the notable developments at the auction, as franchises strengthened their squads for the upcoming season.

With the BCCI now considering the league's longer-term growth, the possibility of adding more teams could become a key talking point in the coming months. Any expansion would require the board to assess the competition's structure and the wider resources needed to support additional franchises.

For now, the WPL remains a five-team competition, with the BCCI expected to explore potential changes as part of its broader review of the tournament.

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