Five teams, one dream! The toughest challenge in women’s cricket—WPL 2025 starts now

While many couples would celebrate February 14 as Valentine’s Day, the true cricket fanatics will be rearing to recontinue their “love” for the biggest Women’s franchise tournament in the Women’s Premier League (WPL). The third season kicks off on February 14 in Vadodara, marking the first time the city will host WPL games. As the league expands to four venues—Vadodara, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Lucknow—fans are in for a thrilling month of action-packed cricket. With Mumbai Indians (2023 winners) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (2024 champions) having already left their mark, the question remains: who will lift the trophy in 2025? While the tournament will soon coincide with the Men’s ICC Champions Trophy, the best of women’s cricket will be on show throughout the next 29 days.

Harmanpreet Kaur’s Mumbai Indians seek redemption

For two seasons in a row, the Mumbai Indians (MI) have dominated the league stage, but 2024 ended in heartbreak as they lost to RCB in the Eliminator. This time, Harmanpreet Kaur’s squad will be hungry for another shot at the title. Nat Sciver-Brunt, Hayley Matthews, and Amelia Kerr remain their key international stars, while young Saika Ishaque continues to shine as their premier Indian bowler.

With Nadine de Klerk joining in and Pooja Vastrakar’s fitness ruling out her from this season, MI’s all-rounder depth will be tested. Also, watch out for young Akshita Maheshwari, a seam-bowling all-rounder who could be a hidden gem this season.

RCB ready to defend WPL title?

RCB finally broke their trophy drought last year, and Smriti Mandhana’s side will now look to defend their crown. However, injuries and withdrawals have made their title defense tricky. Sophie Devine has taken a break, while Sophie Molineux and Kate Cross are ruled out. Ellyse Perry, their hero from 2024, is carrying a hip injury, though she has arrived in India.

To counter these setbacks, RCB have recruited Charlie Dean, Kim Garth, and Heather Graham. Young Raghvi Bist is one to watch in the middle order, and VJ Joshitha, an Under-19 star, adds pace-bowling strength. With Mandhana in sublime form, their title hopes still burn bright.

Gujarat Giants: Can they turn it around?

After two seasons at the bottom of the table, Gujarat Giants (GG) are desperate for a fresh start. Ashleigh Gardner takes over as captain from Beth Mooney, hoping to bring more fight to a squad that has struggled to string together wins.

They’ve made big moves in the auction, bringing in the experienced Deandra Dottin and young powerhouse Simran Shaikh to bolster their batting. Danielle Gibson adds firepower to the pace attack, while leg-spinner Prakashika Naik is a name to watch. Can the Giants finally break free from their past failures?

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Third-time lucky for Delhi Capitals

The best team of the league stage for two years, but no trophies to show for it—Delhi Capitals (DC) are back with a singular focus: winning the WPL 2025 title. Meg Lanning, WPL’s highest-ever run-getter, will once again lead the charge, and with Shafali Verma at the top, their batting is one of the strongest in the league.

Delhi’s strategy remains simple: keep doing what works while tweaking the finer details. Their depth remains a strength, and their experience in high-pressure matches could finally see them go one step further.

Deepti to be the light for UP Warriorz?

It’s a new era for UP Warriorz (UPW) as Deepti Sharma takes over the captaincy after Alyssa Healy’s injury ruled her out. The all-rounder was their best performer last season, and now she will be the one leading from the front.

The biggest name in their squad is Chamari Athapaththu, who is expected to open the batting and provide crucial off-spin. Sophie Ecclestone, WPL’s highest wicket-taker, remains their biggest weapon with the ball. Kranti Goud, a young fast bowler, could be their X-factor in a team that lacks pace depth.

With home games in Lucknow for the first time, Warriorz will hope that the local crowd gives them the boost they need to push for a playoff spot.

The Road to March 15

Over the next month, WPL 2025 will deliver moments of brilliance, heartbreak, and pure cricketing magic. From Mandhana’s stylish strokes to Ecclestone’s pinpoint accuracy, from Harmanpreet’s cool leadership to Lanning’s hunger for redemption, this season promises to be unforgettable.

With the final set to take place on March 15 in Mumbai, the battle for the WPL crown is about to begin. Buckle up—this is going to be a ride to remember!