The fourth edition of the UPT20 League is scheduled to begin on August 14, and BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla says the tournament has become a premier platform for developing talent from Uttar Pradesh.
The tournament opens with defending champions Kashi Rudras facing Meerut Mavericks, and will span 24 days with 34 matches, culminating in a final in Kanpur on September 6.
Shukla highlighted the league’s growing influence and said, “This is the fourth edition of the UPT20 League, and the impact it has made over the past three seasons is evident. This year, 18 players from Uttar Pradesh featured in the IPL. Many achieved breakthroughs after excelling in the UPT20 League, and IPL scouts closely follow the tournament, providing a vital platform for young cricketers to showcase their talent and secure top‑level opportunities.”
Shukla commended the UPCA Speed Hunt programme for its success in identifying promising fast bowlers across Uttar Pradesh and providing a direct pathway into the league.
He added, “The UPCA Speed Hunt has been a major success. We have identified fast bowlers from across the state, and this year 38 bowlers, each consistently clocking over 134 kmph, earned a place in the auction, demonstrating that talented players from every part of Uttar Pradesh now have a route to the UPT20 League and ultimately to the IPL.”
Shukla recommended that each franchise include at least one Speed Hunt player among its uncapped signings to bolster the development of future pace bowlers.
Shukla noted that the league’s expansion remains possible if the Governing Council recommends it.
He said, “The league has become stable after three successful seasons. Should the Governing Council recommend expanding beyond six teams, the Apex Council will consider it. Our priority remains building a strong, sustainable league before pursuing further expansion.”
Shukla reaffirmed the association’s commitment to taking top‑level cricket beyond traditional cricketing centres.
He added, “We are also committed to bringing cricket to more parts of Uttar Pradesh. Hosting the auction in Agra was part of that vision, and we hope it will strengthen the city’s cricketing ecosystem. With improved infrastructure and more quality venues across the state, we will continue exploring opportunities to expand the league.”
The opening ceremony and the initial phase of the tournament will take place at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow, after which the action will move to Green Park Stadium in Kanpur for the remainder of the competition, including the playoffs and final.
Story first published: Monday, July 27, 2026, 16:16 [IST]