Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s parliamentary constituency, Varanasi, is set to host Women’s Premier League (WPL) matches early next year. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly planning to include the under-construction stadium in Ganjari in the WPL schedule between January and March.
The WPL Governing Council discussed the venue during its meeting on Wednesday, with Mumbai’s Cricket Club of India (CCI) and Vadodara also identified as potential venues. Before hosting the women’s T20 league, the stadium is expected to stage its first Ranji Trophy matches during October-November.
Shiva-Themed Architecture Gives Varanasi Stadium a Unique Identity
The under-construction international cricket stadium in Ganjari, Varanasi, will combine modern cricket facilities with the cultural identity of Kashi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the project in September 2023.
The stadium is being built at an estimated cost of ₹450 crore across around 31 acres in Ganjari village, Rajatalab tehsil. Once completed, it will have a seating capacity of around 32,000 spectators.
The design takes inspiration from Lord Shiva and the heritage of Kashi. The stadium will feature a damru-shaped media centre, while four trident-shaped floodlight towers will add to its distinctive look. The roof will draw inspiration from the crescent moon associated with Lord Shiva.
The spectator galleries will also reflect the city’s culture, with their design inspired by the steps of the famous Ganga Ghats. Notably, the facility will have 14 international-standard pitches and two modern electronic scoreboards.
Varanasi Could Become the New WPL Venue
According to Jagran News, Varanasi could join the list of venues for the next season of the Women’s Premier League, subject to final approval. Varanasi, Mumbai’s Cricket Club of India (CCI) and Vadodara have been identified as potential venues for the upcoming season.
The five-team tournament currently features Delhi Capitals, Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Gujarat Giants, and UP Warriorz. WPL matches have so far been held in Delhi, Mumbai, Vadodara, Lucknow, and Bengaluru.
If the proposal is approved, Varanasi will become the latest city to host the league. The move would also allow the new stadium to stage a major franchise tournament soon after its completion.
Ranji Trophy Matches Could Come Before WPL
The Board of Control for Cricket in India is expected to use the Ranji Trophy as an early test of the new venue’s readiness. If the stadium is ready, it could host its first domestic red-ball matches during the October-November window.
The initial Ranji Trophy fixtures will allow officials to assess the pitch, outfield, and other match-day facilities before the WPL arrives. A successful run could then pave the way for international matches at the venue.
The Ranji Trophy, WPL and international cricket could help establish Varanasi as a new cricketing centre in the Purvanchal region. The stadium's combination of modern facilities and Kashi-inspired architecture will also give the venue a distinct identity. This is a big development towards the game of cricket.
