Mumbai’s domestic cricket landscape is expanding — and this time, the spotlight is firmly on the women’s game.
The Mumbai Cricket Association has formally unveiled the Women’s T20 Mumbai League, with the inaugural edition scheduled to run from June 1 to June 15. In a major commercial boost ahead of the launch, the Association has already completed the sale of three franchise operating rights, generating over INR 40 million (approx. US$ 437K).
Franchise bidding crosses INR 40 million mark
The team operating rights were awarded following a competitive bidding process, with PRS Infraprojects LLP emerging as the highest bidder at INR 22.5 million (approx. US$ 246K). Roadway Solution India Infra Ltd followed with a successful bid of INR 10.9 million (approx. US$ 119K), while World Star Sporting Private Limited secured the third franchise for INR 7.9 million (approx. US$ 86K).
The three entities will formally operate the teams subject to completion of regulatory formalities and final agreements, with operational specifics to be overseen by the T20 Mumbai League Governing Council.
Calling the bidding process a landmark moment, T20 Mumbai League Governing Council Chairman Rajdip Gupta said in an official statement: “The successful conclusion of the bidding process marks an important milestone for the T20 Mumbai Women’s League. The strong bids received underline the league’s credibility and potential. We look forward to working closely with the franchise owners to deliver a high-quality tournament that showcases the depth of women’s cricketing talent in Mumbai,”
Structure modelled on Men’s T20 Mumbai League
The Women’s T20 Mumbai League will mirror the franchise-based structure of the Men’s T20 Mumbai League, itself modelled on the IPL format. The upcoming women’s competition is expected to feature three teams and a total of seven matches during its first edition.
Importantly, participation will be limited exclusively to women cricketers from Mumbai — a city that boasts around 55 affiliated cricket clubs — reinforcing the league’s focus on local talent development.
The MCA also plans to conduct a player auction ahead of the tournament to ensure transparent team composition and competitive balance.
Icon players to headline inaugural edition
Subject to availability, the league is expected to feature three designated icon players: Jemimah Rodrigues, Saima Thakor and Sayali Satghare. Their presence is likely to elevate the tournament’s profile while offering emerging players exposure alongside established names.
For MCA President Ajinkya Naik, the financial response to the bidding process signals a broader shift in the commercial perception of women’s cricket.
“The overwhelming response to the bidding process for the T20 Mumbai Women’s League is a strong endorsement of our vision to elevate women’s cricket in Mumbai. The participation of reputed corporate groups reflects the growing commercial confidence in the women’s game. We are committed to building a competitive and professionally managed league that provides a robust platform for emerging talent,” he said in an official statement.
Strategic timing ahead of IPL window
The Women’s T20 Mumbai League is tentatively set to commence immediately after the conclusion of the IPL season, allowing the Association to capitalise on heightened cricket interest while providing a dedicated window for women’s domestic competition.
With franchise investments secured and structural groundwork underway, the MCA’s move represents a significant step in institutionalising a professional pathway for women cricketers in one of India’s most influential cricketing centres.
The commercial backing, combined with a franchise model and auction system, signals that Mumbai’s women’s league is being positioned as a long-term pillar in the city’s cricket ecosystem.
