WPL game in Navi Mumbai to be played behind closed doors due to elections

A few of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 fixtures at the DY Patil Stadium are set to be played behind closed doors due to municipal corporation elections scheduled in the city. 

According to an ESPNcricinfo report, WPL matches on January 14, 15, and 16 are likely to be conducted without spectators because of elections in Navi Mumbai on January 15. Police authorities have informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that providing adequate security for both the elections and cricket matches on the same day would not be feasible. As a result, the Mumbai Indians-UP Warriorz clash on January 15 is most likely to be played behind closed doors.

Notably, tickets for fixtures on January 14, 15, and 16 are currently unavailable on the official WPL ticketing platform. If the situation remains unchanged, the affected matches could include Delhi Capitals-UP Warriorz (January 14), Mumbai Indians-UP Warriorz (January 15), and Gujarat Giants-Royal Challengers Bengaluru (January 16). While the WPL schedule was announced on November 29, the election date was made public later on December 15, and it is understood that the WPL committee was informed soon after.

Navi Mumbai Police impose traffic restrictions around DY Patil Stadium 

Meanwhile, Navi Mumbai Police have also imposed traffic restrictions around the DY Patil Stadium for the duration of the WPL matches from January 9 to January 17. The service road between Bhimashankar Society and the L.P. Rickshaw Stand in Nerul will remain closed to all types of vehicles from 7 am to 11 pm on match days. The stretch has been marked exclusively for the movement of players and dignitaries to ensure security and smooth operations.

Vehicles carrying essential services, emergency responders, and those holding official WPL passes will be exempted from the restrictions. Commuters have been advised to use the Sion-Panvel Highway, particularly the Uran Phata to L.P. Bridge route, as an alternative.