The inaugural WAPL women’s cricket tournament is set to provide a new platform for female cricketers from grassroots and rural areas across Andhra Pradesh. Organised by the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA), the Women’s Andhra Premier League has been created to scout, develop and showcase players who may not regularly get opportunities at the highest levels of domestic cricket.
The tournament teaser was launched at the ACA administrative office in Vijayawada by Andhra Pradesh State Women’s Commission Chairperson Dr. Rayapati Sailaja, alongside ACA Director of Cricket Operations Kalyan Krishna and CEO Jai Kishan. The tournament runs from September 19 to September 27, with all 13 matches taking place at the ACA International Cricket Stadium in Mangalagiri.
WAPL Creates Grassroots Pathway
The Andhra Pradesh Women’s Premier League has been modelled on the successful structure of the men’s Andhra Premier League. The franchise-based competition aims to give domestic players regular white-ball match practice while creating a scouting pathway for cricketers from districts outside the major cities.
Players from rural and less represented parts of the state can often face limited access to high level matches and selection opportunities. WAPL is designed to address this gap by bringing talented players into a competitive T20 environment where their performances can be watched by coaches, selectors and other members of the cricketing system.
The inaugural tournament will feature 74 players who were drafted during a four-team player auction in Vijayawada. The competition will give a large group of emerging cricketers an opportunity to play in an organised franchise tournament.
Mithali Raj to Mentor Players
Former India women’s captain Mithali Raj has been appointed as the brand ambassador of the tournament. Her involvement is expected to provide additional visibility to the competition and its players while giving the emerging cricketers an opportunity to learn from one of India’s most recognised women’s cricket figures.
Her association also highlights the ACA’s wider objective of strengthening the women’s game in the state. The tournament can provide players with competitive experience while helping increase interest in Women’s cricket Andhra Pradesh.
Four Teams to Compete in Inaugural Season
Four franchise teams will compete for the inaugural WAPL title. Amaravati e Champions, owned by Ushodaya Enterprises, will represent the Amaravati region, while ORA Motors owns Vizag Fire Birds.
Godavari Golden Eagles are owned by NSR Industries, while Rayalaseema Zen Stars are owned by Garrison Constructions. The four teams will compete in a T20 day-night format during the nine-day tournament.
The ACA is also making efforts to bring the tournament closer to the local community. Entry to the matches will be free, while special transport buses will be arranged for students and young people travelling from Vijayawada to the stadium.
WAPL Could Expand Across Andhra Pradesh
The ACA has already outlined plans to expand the tournament geographically. From the next season, WAPL matches are planned to be hosted in Visakhapatnam and Kadapa as well.
Such expansion could allow the league to reach more players and audiences across the state. With its focus on grassroots scouting, competitive opportunities and regional representation, WAPL women’s cricket aims to create a stronger pathway for emerging female cricketers across Andhra Pradesh.
