The Andhra Cricket Association is set to take another major step towards developing women’s cricket in the state with the launch of the inaugural Women’s Andhra Premier League. The franchise-based competition is aimed at giving female cricketers greater exposure and creating a stronger pathway from grassroots cricket to the professional level.
The league was officially launched by Andhra Cricket Association President and Vijayawada MP Kesineni Sivanath, also known as Chinni, alongside former India women’s captain Mithali Raj, who will serve as the mentor and advisor for the competition.
Women’s Andhra Premier League Set for September
The inaugural Women’s Andhra Premier League will be played from September 15 to September 26, 2026. The tournament will feature day-night matches at the ACA Cricket Ground in Mangalagiri.
Four franchises have been secured through a competitive bidding process. The base price for each franchise was set at ₹35 lakh, with all four teams eventually attracting bids well above that figure.
Ushodaya Enterprises emerged as the highest bidder after securing a franchise for ₹89 lakh. Garrison Constructions followed with a bid of ₹85.50 lakh, while Ora Motors paid ₹77.77 lakh. NSR Industries completed the group after winning its franchise for ₹61.11 lakh.
The investment from the franchises highlights the growing interest in women’s cricket in Andhra Pradesh.
ACA Will Organise Premier League for Women
The announcement underlines the association’s focus on providing regular competitive opportunities to women cricketers. The Andhra Cricket Association will organise premier league for women with the aim of helping players gain valuable match experience.
The tournament is expected to provide a platform for young players who may otherwise have limited opportunities to play high level competitive cricket.
Mithali Raj’s involvement is another major boost for the initiative. Her experience as one of India’s most successful women’s cricketers can provide valuable guidance to players and help strengthen the development structure around the league.
The ACA has also announced plans to establish a dedicated Centre of Excellence and cricket academy at Moolapadu, further strengthening its long term commitment to player development.
Free Entry for School Students
The league will also focus on building interest in women’s cricket among younger fans. School students will be allowed to attend the matches for free, giving them an opportunity to watch competitive women’s cricket in person.
The move could help increase awareness of the sport at the grassroots level while encouraging more young girls to consider cricket as a serious sporting career.
Is the Andhra Cricket Association a Government or Private Organization?
A common question is, Is the Andhra Cricket Association a government or private organization?
The ACA is a private and autonomous organisation. It is registered as a non profit sports society under the Societies Registration Act and operates as a state cricket association affiliated with the Board of Control for Cricket in India.
It is not a government department, Public Sector Undertaking or government owned organisation. Its revenues can come from sources such as BCCI grants, media rights, sponsorships, franchise fees and gate receipts.
However, state cricket associations can perform certain public functions, meaning their activities may be subject to judicial review in specific legal circumstances.
With the Women’s Andhra Premier League, the ACA is now looking to create a stronger ecosystem for women cricketers and provide them with the exposure needed to progress towards higher levels of the game.
