Navi Mumbai, January 9, 2026 – The much-anticipated Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 is all set for a spectacular launch as the tournament officially kicks off with a grand opening ceremony ahead of the first match at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. Fans of cricket and entertainment alike are gearing up for a night of high energy, star performances, and the first shot of a thrilling season.
Promising to blend sport and entertainment like never before, the WPL opening ceremony will feature electrifying performances by Yo Yo Honey Singh, one of India’s biggest music stars, and Jacqueline Fernandez, Bollywood’s celebrated actress and dancer. The event is designed to set the tone for what promises to be a blockbuster season of women’s cricket.
What’s Happening at the WPL 2026 Opening Ceremony?
The WPL opening ceremony on January 9 has been scheduled with precision so that fans can enjoy both entertainment and cricket in one memorable evening. The focus is not only on the first match of the season but also on celebrating the rise of women’s sport in India with a mix of music, dance, and live spectacle.
Venue
- Stadium: DY Patil Stadium
- City: Navi Mumbai
- Date: Friday, January 9, 2026
The DY Patil Stadium is known for its vibrant atmosphere under lights, making it the perfect host for the first night of competitive action and entertainment.
Ceremony Schedule
Fans should make note of the key timings so they don’t miss any part of the celebration:
| Event | Time (IST) |
|---|---|
| Stadium Gates Open | ~5:00 PM |
| Opening Ceremony Begins | 6:45 PM |
| Toss | ~7:00 PM |
| MI vs RCB Match Start | 7:30 PM |
The pre-match entertainment will be a highlight before the on-field action begins, and spectators are encouraged to arrive early to soak in the full experience.
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Star Power: Performers Headlining the Ceremony
Yo Yo Honey Singh
Yo Yo Honey Singh, a pioneer in Indian hip-hop and pop music, will headline the musical portion of the opening ceremony. With hits that have dominated charts and dance floors, his performance will energize fans and set a lively tone for the evening.
Highlight:
- High-energy musical performance
- Stage set to pump up the crowd before the match
Jacqueline Fernandez
Bollywood actor and dancer Jacqueline Fernandez is expected to add glamour and entertainment flair with a specially curated performance that celebrates confidence, courage, and the unstoppable rise of women in sports.
Highlight:
- Dance performance showcasing energy and celebration
- Focus on empowerment and spirit of competition
Season Opener: MI vs RCB
Following the ceremony, the cricketing action begins with a high-profile match between:
- Mumbai Indians (MI) – Defending champions
- Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) – 2024 champions
The game is scheduled to start at 7:30 PM IST, with the toss taking place shortly before at around 7:00 PM IST.
This clash promises fireworks on the field as two of the most successful franchises in the Women’s Premier League lock horns on night one.
The opening ceremony is more than just a prelude to a cricket match. It encapsulates the growing stature of women’s cricket in India and elevates the WPL as a major entertainment event. By hosting top entertainers and blending them with sport, the league highlights its ambition to be a cultural phenomenon that attracts not only cricket fans but also mainstream audiences.
Looking Ahead: WPL 2026 Format & Schedule Flow
After the opening night, the WPL will continue across two major venues:
Phase 1 – Navi Mumbai
- From January 9 to January 17, DY Patil Stadium will host the first leg of matches.
Phase 2 – Vadodara
- Matches will shift to Kotambi Stadium, Vadodara for the remaining fixtures.
- Eliminator: February 3
- Final: February 5
Across this schedule, 22 matches will be played as five teams compete in a round-robin format, culminating in playoffs and the championship match.
What Fans Should Know Before Attending
- E-tickets only: All entries require digital tickets accessible via the official ticketing app.
- Arrive early: Gates open hours before the ceremony.
- No re-entry: Once exited, re-entry to the stadium may not be allowed on the same ticket.
From thrilling entertainment with Yo Yo Honey Singh and Jacqueline Fernandez to a high-stakes cricketing battle between MI and RCB, the WPL 2026 opening ceremony promises a night of unforgettable moments. The celebration stands as a testament to the rising popularity and cultural impact of women’s cricket in India.
