Baroda is likely to host the WPL final as the BCCI shortlisted venue

The First league for women (WPL) is preparing for its third season, a Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been shortlisted for two slots to host the tournament. Baroda and Lucknow are in the game and Baroda is likely to host the final.

The season is expected to start around February 6 or 7. Although the BCCI has not officially fixed the venues or dates, informal talks 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 ODI matches against the West Indies last month. Action was also seen in senior women’s T20 matches and a few Ranji Trophy matches.

The BCA wants to host the second phase of the WPL, including the final, to showcase the new stadium under the lights. The committee wants more time to ensure the facility is fully prepared for the high-profile event.

The BCCI plans to hold the 23-match tournament in two phases in two cities. Lucknow is likely to host the first phase while Baroda will take over the second half. The final is expected around March 8 or 9.

The inaugural season of the WPL was held entirely in Mumbai. In the second season, the matches were spread across Bengaluru and Delhi. Royal Challengers Bengaluru won the title in the last edition and will look to defend their crown.

Also read: Pakistan were deducted 5 WTC points by the ICC for slow overs during the second Test against South Africa

NCA visit by Harmanpreet Kaur

In a separate development, Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur 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 has stated that she is resting. However, sources suggest that her absence could be related to the NCA fitness review.

Renuka Singh Thakur is also missing from the squad. The BCCI remained tight-lipped about the nature of Harmanpreet’s injury or the treatment she might require.

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