The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 auction in Bengaluru proved to be a turning point for uncapped Indian players, as several emerging stars fetched high bids and gained the spotlight. With teams strategically targeting young, promising talent, the auction underscored the growing depth in Indian women’s cricket while also featuring notable international acquisitions.
Simran Shaikh: The Day’s Biggest Buy
Simran Shaikh, an allrounder from Mumbai, became the most expensive player at the auction. Gujarat Giants acquired her for a staggering INR 1.9 crore (USD 223,000 approx), following a fierce bidding war with Delhi Capitals. Known for her power-hitting abilities, Shaikh has impressed scouts with her recent performances in domestic competitions. In the 2024 Senior Women’s T20 Trophy, she amassed 176 runs in nine innings with a strike rate of 100.57.
“Her ability to hit sixes straightaway and complement our Indian core made her an essential addition to our squad,” said Giants head coach Michael Klinger. Shaikh’s experience from her earlier WPL stint with UP Warriorz adds further value to her inclusion in Gujarat’s lineup.
Young Talents G Kamilini and Prema Rawat Make Waves
Tamil Nadu’s 16-year-old batting prodigy G Kamilini also turned heads, with Mumbai Indians securing her services for INR 1.6 crore (USD 190,000 approx). Kamilini’s stock rose after her unbeaten 44 off 29 balls helped India seal a nine-wicket win against Pakistan in the Under-19 Women’s Asia Cup. Mumbai’s investment in the youngster highlights their focus on nurturing future stars.
Another standout performer was Uttarakhand’s legspinner Prema Rawat, who joined Royal Challengers Bengaluru for INR 1.2 crore (USD 140,000 approx). Rawat’s impressive performances in the inaugural Uttarakhand Premier League and her reputation as an exceptional fielder made her a hot property during the auction. Her addition strengthens RCB’s spin department and gives them a dynamic option in the field.
Overseas Players Command Attention
While uncapped Indian players dominated the auction, international stars also made significant moves. West Indies allrounder Deandra Dottin emerged as the highest-paid overseas player, earning INR 1.7 crore (USD 200,000 approx) from Gujarat Giants. Dottin’s return to the Giants, after a controversial exit in the inaugural season, signals a new chapter for both the player and the franchise.
Australia’s Alana King joined UP Warriorz late in the accelerated round, while England’s Danielle Gibson was picked up by the Giants. Other notable acquisitions included Scotland’s Sarah Bryce, who was signed by Delhi Capitals, and South African allrounder Nadine de Klerk, secured by Mumbai Indians.
Surprising Snubs: High-Profile Players Go Unsold
One of the most surprising aspects of the auction was the lack of interest in established stars such as India spinner Sneh Rana, England captain Heather Knight, and former South Africa opener Lizelle Lee. The focus on uncapped and overseas players left these experienced cricketers without contracts, raising questions about the evolving dynamics of team building in the WPL.
Delhi Capitals’ director of cricket, Sourav Ganguly, reflected on the auction’s outcomes, stating, “We’re far stronger as a squad this season. Players like Sarah Bryce and Nandini Kashyap add significant value to our team.”
Full List of Players Acquired at WPL 2025 Auction
Delhi Capitals
- N Charani
- Nandini Kashyap
- Sarah Bryce (Scotland)
- Niki Prasad
Gujarat Giants
- Simran Shaikh
- Deandra Dottin (West Indies)
- Danielle Gibson (England)
- Prakashika Naik
Mumbai Indians
- G Kamilini
- Nadine de Klerk (South Africa)
- Akshita Maheshwari
- Sanskriti Gupta
Royal Challengers Bengaluru
- Prema Rawat
- Joshitha JV
- Raghvi Bist
- Jagravi Pawar
UP Warriorz
- Alana King (Australia)
- Arushi Goel
- Kranti Goud
Building for the Future
The WPL 2025 auction has laid a strong foundation for the upcoming season, with franchises prioritizing long-term planning and the development of young talent. The inclusion of uncapped players alongside experienced international stars promises an exciting blend of skill and potential on the field. As fans eagerly await the tournament, the stage is set for thrilling cricketing action and the emergence of new heroes in the women’s game.
