Andhra Cricket Association launches inaugural Women's Premier League with four franchises

The Andhra Cricket Association completed its player auction in Vijayawada on Tuesday for the inaugural Women's Andhra Premier League, with four franchises selecting from a pool of 191 registered cricketers.

The auction marks a key step toward launching the state's first franchise-based women's cricket tournament, scheduled to run from September 15 to 26 at the ACA Stadium in Mangalagiri. Former India captain Mithali Raj will serve as the league's brand ambassador.

Four franchises enter the fray

Amaravati E Champions (backed by Ushodaya Enterprises), Rayalaseema Zen Stars (Garrison Constructions), Vizag Fire Birds (Ora Motors), and Godavari Golden Eagles (NSR Industries) will field teams this season. The Governing Council and ACA jointly conducted the auction.

Player pool spans national to district level

The 191 registered players are divided into two grades. Grade A comprises 45 cricketers who have represented India, featured in the Women's Premier League, or played for Andhra Pradesh at senior and Under-23 levels. Grade B includes 146 players with experience at district and zonal competitions.

The ACA is building on momentum from the recently concluded men's Andhra Premier League. The women's edition signals the association's push to create a structured pathway for female cricketers in the state, offering players outside the WPL ecosystem competitive match experience in a franchise format.

Source: The Hindu