Lloyds Announces GDPL 2026 Format, Rules and Inclusion of Women’s Cricket

Gadchiroli: Lloyds Metals and Energy Limited has officially unveiled the structure and regulations for the Gadchiroli District Premier League (GDPL) 2026 season. The new T20 edition, aimed at fostering local cricketing talent and strengthening the sporting culture of the district, will begin with its qualifying rounds on 16 January 2026. A total of 20 teams will participate this season, comprising 12 Taluka teams and 8 departmental sides including Lloyds, Collectors’ Eleven, Police, CRPF, Zila Parishad (including Agriculture), Gondwana University, Forest and the Media team. All matches will be conducted as per IPL and BCCI Standard T20 norms. --- Tournament Structure Eight teams will enter the league stage directly based on their rankings from the previous season. The remaining 12 teams will compete in single-knockout qualifying matches, from which six winners will progress. To complete the roster of 16 league-stage teams, two additional teams will be selected through a lucky draw. The 16 qualified teams will be divided into four pools, followed by playoffs to decide the champions. --- Team and Player Guidelines Each team will consist of 16 players and 4 officials. Teams are permitted to register two outside players—eligible under VCA Nagpur Zone regulations—by 10 December 2025. All player details and identification documents must also be submitted by this deadline. --- Match & Event Regulations Key T20 playing conditions announced include: 20 overs per side, with a maximum of 4 overs per bowler Powerplay overs: first 6 overs Super Over to decide tied matches Over-rate target: 20 overs to be completed within 90 minutes Standard 2–1–0 points system for Win–Tie/No Result–Loss Organisers have also laid down strict rules for dress code, discipline, transport and food arrangements. Penalties will apply for any violations. --- Integrity & Safety Measures To ensure fair play, the league will appoint neutral umpires, a match referee, and integrity officers for all teams. First-aid facilities will be available at every venue, and mobile phones or communication devices will not be permitted inside the playing area. --- Women’s Cricket Introduced In a major step towards inclusivity, the GDPL will, for the first time, feature four women’s teams. They will compete in two knockout matches, culminating in a grand finale. --- With these new rules and additions, GDPL 2026 promises a more competitive, disciplined, and inclusive cricketing platform, offering fresh opportunities to Gadchiroli’s emerging cricketing talent.