A new chapter began for women’s cricket in Andhra Pradesh as the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) launched the inaugural season of the Women’s Andhra Premier League (WAPL) with great fanfare on Saturday. The prestigious T20 tournament aims to identify and nurture young women cricketers from across the state, providing them a strong platform to shine at national and international levels.
The grand opening ceremony took place at the ACA International Cricket Stadium in Mangalagiri. Heritage Foods Executive Director Nara Brahmani attended as the chief guest and formally inaugurated the tournament. She was joined by former Indian women’s cricket team captain and WAPL brand ambassador Mithali Raj. Together, they unveiled the tournament trophy.
Upon her arrival, Nara Brahmani was warmly welcomed by ACA President and MP Kesineni Sivanath (Chinni) and ACA Secretary and Rajya Sabha MP Sana Satish Babu. After lighting the ceremonial lamp, Brahmani and Mithali Raj presented the trophy, symbolising the spirit of the league.
Speaking on the occasion, Nara Brahmani expressed her joy at the launch of a dedicated premier league for women. “This is a wonderful platform for young women cricketers in the state to showcase their talent. Given the right opportunities, women can achieve wonders in any field. The players who excel here will become role models for future generations,” she said. She also congratulated ACA President Kesineni Sivanath, Secretary Sana Satish Babu and the organising team for hosting such a significant event in Mangalagiri.
The primary objective of WAPL is to scout talented young women cricketers, including those from remote areas of the state, and provide them with better training and opportunities. The ACA aims to help standout performers progress to the Women’s Premier League (WPL) and the Indian women’s cricket team. The involvement of cricket icon Mithali Raj as brand ambassador is expected to further inspire the young athletes.
The franchise-based T20 tournament features four teams: Rayalaseema Zen Stars, Godavari Eagles, Amaravati E-Champions and Vizag Fire Birds. A total of 13 matches will be played over seven days at the ACA Stadium in Mangalagiri.
The opening match between Rayalaseema Zen Stars and Godavari Eagles was held on Saturday afternoon. Following the inauguration ceremony, the second match took place between Amaravati E-Champions and Vizag Fire Birds. Cultural programmes organised as part of the opening celebrations added colour to the event and entertained the audience.
Nara Brahmani was presented with a special memento by the organisers. Other dignitaries present included APL Governing Council Chairman Sujay Krishna Rangaraju, ACA Treasurer Dandamudi Srinivas, Apex Council member D. Vishnuteja, Cricket Operations Director Kalyan Krishna, APL Governing Council member YS Ranganath and others. Tollywood actress Nidhi Agarwal also graced the occasion.
The launch of WAPL marks a significant step towards strengthening women’s cricket in Andhra Pradesh and creating a structured pathway for emerging talent.
Nara Brahmani Inaugurates Women’s Andhra Premier League, Ushering New Era for Women’s Cricket in Andhra Pradesh
