From state talent to IPL dreams: MPCA president highlights role of MPL in player development

The Aditya Birla Group Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) T20 Scindia Cup will return for its third season, bigger and more competitive than ever, with an expanded team list and greater opportunities for new talent across the state.

Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) President Mahanaaryaman Scindia emphasized the significance of the league’s growth and said the addition of new franchises reflects the association’s commitment to nurture young cricketers and give them a bigger platform to showcase their skills.

“Expanding the league with new teams is all about creating more opportunities for young cricketers. More teams means more players will get a chance to compete, showcase their talent and gain valuable exposure. Our aim is to build a stronger pathway for emerging players and help more of them progress to higher levels of the game, be it the IPL, WPL or even representing India in the future,” said Scindia.

Scindia also pointed to the rapid rise of Madhya Pradesh cricket in recent years and credited the state’s strong cricket ecosystem for producing players capable of succeeding on the biggest stages.

“During the last few years, Madhya Pradesh cricket has made tremendous progress. We have seen players from the state perform at the highest level, from Rajat Patidar leading an IPL-winning team to budding talents making it big in franchise cricket. The same growth is visible in women’s cricket, with several players gaining recognition for their performances,” he added.

The MPL has quickly become one of India’s premier T20 competitions at the state level and the upcoming season marks another major milestone in its evolution. The tournament expanded in both men’s and women’s categories and further strengthened the pathway for budding cricketers.

The men’s competition will now feature 10 teams, with Malwa Stallions, Ujjain Falcons and Royal Nimar Eagles joining defending champions Bhopal Leopards, Bundelkhand Bulls, Chambal Ghariyals, Gwalior Cheetahs, Indore Pink Panthers, Jabalpur Royal Lions and Rewa Jaguars.

The women’s tournament has also grown, with the Gwalior Shernis and Royal Nimar Eagles making their debuts. They will compete alongside Bhopal Wolves, Bundelkhand Bulls and Chambal Ghariyals in the five-team competition.

The matches will be played at two venues in Indore – Holkar Stadium and Daly College. The men’s tournament will begin with Gwalior Cheetahs against debutants Ujjain Falcons at the Holkar Stadium, while the women’s competition begins on June 4 with Chambal Ghariyals against Gwalior Shernis at Daly College.

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Issued by:

Saurabh Kumar

Published on:

03 Jun 2026 20:49 IST