Andhra Cricket Association Hosts Player Auction for Inaugural Women’s Andhra Premier League
The Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) has taken the step to launch its first franchise-based tournament for women cricketers, titled the Women’s Andhra Premier League (WAPL). Following the recent conclusion of the Andhra Premier League, the Governing Council and the state cricket association organized the inaugural player auction in Vijayawada on Tuesday.
What Happened
According to an official press release issued by the ACA, four commercial franchises have stepped forward to acquire players for the debut season. The auction held in Vijayawada finalized the rosters for the participating squads. A total of 191 players signed up to take part in the league, divided into two distinct experience categories: Grade A and Grade B. Former Indian women’s team captain Mithali Raj has been named the official brand ambassador for the competition.
Key Highlights
- Tournament Debut: This marks the first-ever franchise-model edition of the Women’s Andhra Premier League organised by the ACA.
- Four Franchises: The competing teams and their owners include Amaravati E Champions (Ushodaya Enterprises), Rayalaseema Zen Stars (Garrison Constructions), Vizag Fire Birds (Ora Motors), and Godavari Golden Eagles (NSR Industries).
- Player Pool: Out of 191 total registered cricketers, 45 belong to Grade A, which encompasses players who have represented India, competed in the Women’s Premier League (WPL), or represented state teams at the senior and Under-23 levels.
- Grassroots Inclusion: Grade B features 146 players with competitive backgrounds at the district and zonal levels.
- Leadership Face: Former India captain Mithali Raj represents the league as brand ambassador.
- Schedule and Venue: The competition will take place at the ACA Stadium in Mangalagiri from September 15 to September 26.
Why This Matters
The establishment of the WAPL creates an organized platform within Andhra Pradesh that connects regional talent with high-level competition. By integrating players with national, state, and Women’s Premier League experience alongside district-level competitors across four corporate-backed franchises, the tournament provides structured exposure and development opportunities within the state’s domestic cricket framework.
What to Watch Next
The four squads are set to compete at the ACA Stadium in Mangalagiri, with tournament fixtures scheduled to run between September 15 and September 26.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where will the Women’s Andhra Premier League matches be held?
The matches are scheduled to be played at the ACA Stadium in Mangalagiri between September 15 and September 26.
How many teams are participating in the tournament?
Four franchise teams will compete: Amaravati E Champions, Rayalaseema Zen Stars, Vizag Fire Birds, and Godavari Golden Eagles.
What is the difference between Grade A and Grade B players in the auction?
Grade A consists of 45 players who have played for India, in the Women’s Premier League, or represented their state at the senior and Under-23 tiers. Grade B comprises 146 cricketers with experience at the district and zonal levels.
Who is the brand ambassador for the WAPL?
Former India captain Mithali Raj serves as the brand ambassador for the league.
Source: Information based on an official press release reported by The Hindu.