CSK Finally Respond To WPL Expansion [Source: AFP]Chennai Super Kings may be out of the IPL 2026 season, but their ambitions for the future are still very much high. Recently, the franchise CEO dropped a big hint about their expansion into the Women’s Premier League (WPL).The WPL marked its debut in 2023 and became an instant hit. In the last four seasons, the tournament has reached new heights, thus transforming women’s cricket dynamics in the country.Chennai Super Kings ambitious for entry into the WPLHowever, currently, WPL consists of only 5 teams, Mumbai Indians, RCB, Delhi Capitals, UP Warriorz and Gujarat Giants. According to rumours, owing to the league’s growing popularity, WPL may be expanded in the future.With IPL teams like MI, RCB and DC thriving in the IPL, Chennai Super Kings are also tempted to venture into the WPL soon. Recently, speaking to RevSportz, Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Viswanathan said that owner Rupa Gurunath is a passionate follower of cricket and would definitely like the franchise to be involved in the WPL whenever the right opportunity arises.However, he also clarified that there is no immediate update regarding expansion or entry plans. The final decision, according to him, will depend on future opportunities and internal discussions within the franchise."Our owner, Rupa Gurunath, is a great follower of cricket. She would definitely like, at some stage, when an opportunity arises and if we are able to compete and get into the Women’s Premier League, for us to be involved. But I cannot say exactly when it will happen. That is a call we will have to take," Viswanathan said.Also Read - “No Discussion With MS Dhoni For Future”- CSK CEO Kasi ViswanathAfter CSK, PBKS express interest in WPL tooInterestingly, Chennai Super Kings are not the only team to have eyes on the WPL. Punjab Kings co-owner Mohit Burman said the franchise would love to own a WPL team in the future.“The WPL has already established itself as an important platform for the women’s game in a very short period of time. The growth of women’s cricket has been fantastic to witness. Personally, I think the future of the women’s game is extremely bright. We would love to own a women’s IPL team,” Burman told PTI.Burman also clarified that Punjab Kings' not investing in the league during its initial phase should not be viewed as a lack of belief in women’s cricket. Instead, he described it as a matter of timing, business priorities and long-term strategic planning."As for investment decisions, every group evaluates opportunities differently depending on timing, strategic priorities and long-term business considerations. Not investing initially should not be interpreted as a lack of belief in women’s cricket," he added.BCCI hesitant on WPL expansionThat being said, despite the growing interest from major IPL franchises, BCCI officials have maintained a cautious stance regarding expansion. The board reportedly wants to further stabilise and strengthen the competition before adding more teams. Also, the window for hosting WPL is small due to the packed international calendar and limited player availability.Hence, the BCCI must find a bigger window first before planning to expand the tournament from 5 to 6 or 8 teams.Also Read - Rasikh Salam-Rahul Tewatia In Death Stare Competition, RCB Players Gather
