As the buzz around the inaugural Women’s Bangladesh Premier League (WBPL) intensifies, a major question has surfaced regarding the potential involvement of Indian superstars. Scheduled to take place from April 4 to April 14, 2026, the tournament is finally set to launch after years of delays. While the BCCI famously restricts its male players from joining overseas T20 leagues, the rules for female cricketers are different, leading many to wonder if icons like Smriti Mandhana or Harmanpreet Kaur will be seen in action across venues in Chattogram and Dhaka.

Women’s Bangladesh Premier League: Rubaba Dowla addresses the Indian player equation

As per Cricbuzz, During the first official coordination meeting at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Wednesday, February 25, Rubaba Dowla, chairperson of the WBPL Governing Council, provided direct clarity on player eligibility.

She confirmed that the league is intentionally designed to be inclusive, with no geographical or country-specific barriers preventing teams from pursuing the world’s best talent. Dowla emphasized that the BCB is eager to see high-profile international participation to elevate the tournament’s standard, specifically noting that the recruitment of Indian stars is a distinct possibility as the league seeks to build a global profile from its very first edition.

“We are open to all. There is no country-specific restriction. Whoever shows interest, and whichever teams want to bring such players, they can do so. It is open to all, so we will see. Several international players have already expressed interest in the tournament, and we will reveal their names later. In a few days, we will also inform you which teams are taking part. What I can say for now is that some well-known star players have shown interest.” Dowla said.

Mending ties through a structured franchise framework

The timing of this announcement is tactically significant, as the BCB appears keen to revitalize its professional relationship with the BCCI following recent diplomatic tensions in the cricket world. By adopting a model that mirrors the IPL’s framework for overseas player caps. allowing up to four foreign players in a squad, the BCB is signaling a desire for a standardized, world-class competition.

Unlike the men’s circuit, Indian women regularly feature in the Big Bash League and The Hundred, making their potential arrival in the WBPL a realistic goal for franchises. The tournament will conclude with a grand finale on Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year), aiming to combine a festival atmosphere with a high-stakes professional draft.

“All arrangements for the Women’s BPL are currently underway. We are holding regular meetings. The Governing Council and the working committee are planning together how to execute the tournament in the best possible way. The draft process will be followed for player selection, and we will organize a proper event for it. Each team must have a minimum of two overseas players, and possibly three to four. We will finalize that soon. Matches will start on April 4 in Chattogram, and the final will be held in Dhaka on April 14, which coincides with Pohela Boishakh.” Dowla concluded.

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Women’s Bangladesh Premier League: Categorized salary structure and local remuneration

According to a detailed report by Cricbuzz, the BCB has finalized a comprehensive financial blueprint to ensure a professional and rewarding environment for domestic cricketers. The tournament will feature a five-tier salary system, ranging from marquee “Icon” players to emerging “D” category talents, ensuring that the three participating franchises maintain a balanced and competitive wage bill. This structured approach is designed to provide financial security to the local talent pool while the board simultaneously manages the higher costs associated with recruiting international “star” players through the draft system

Player Salary Categories (BDT)

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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.