With the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 retention deadline set for November 7, all eyes are on how Gujarat Giants will shape their squad for the upcoming season.
The Gujarat Giants have had underwhelming performances in both previous seasons of the Women’s Premier League, finishing at the bottom of the table each time. However, the Giants will be eager to turn things around this time, and their preparations start with building a strong core ahead of the third season.
In the second season of the Women’s Premier League, the Giants strengthened their roster by bringing in young Australian batter Phoebe Litchfield and Kathryn Bryce as an associate player. They also bolstered their bowling attack with the additions of Meghna Singh, Priya Mishra, and Kashvee Gautam.
The upcoming season is crucial for the Gujarat Giants. They have experienced players like Ashleigh Gardner and Beth Mooney forming the core of their squad. Other key players, such as Harleen Deol—who missed the last season due to injury—Sneh Rana, and Shabnam Shakil, are also likely to be retained. The Giants might consider holding onto overseas talents like South Africa’s skipper Laura Wolvaardt, who has been a consistent performer across formats, especially when the right-handed batter has enjoyed a phenomenal run in international cricket.
Likely Retain Players:
Based on the team combination, Gujarat Giants are likely to retain the following players:-
Ashleigh Gardner*, Beth Mooney*, Dayalan Hemalatha, Harleen Deol, Laura Wolvaardt*, Shabnam Shakil, Tanuja Kanwer, Phoebe Litchfield*, Kashvee Gautam, Priya Mishra, Kathryn Bryce*(associate nation), Mannat Kashyap, Meghna Singh
Likely Released players:
Gujarat Giants might opt to release several players to make room for new talent. Sneh Rana, who had an unimpressive season with no wickets in four matches, could be released. Others like Trisha Poojitha, Sayali Satghare (due to limited opportunities), Lauren Cheatle or Lea Tahuhu, Veda Krishnamurthy (who struggled to make an impact with the bat), and Tarannum Pathan may also be released to bring in fresh signings.
Gujarat Giants will be looking to strengthen their squad by making strategic signings through the auction. Here are some potential options:
Tejal Hasabnis:
The right-handed batter from Maharashtra had a standout series during India A tour to Australia, scoring three consecutive fifties. Her middle-order stability could be a significant asset for the Giants.
Nadine de Klerk:
The Proteas all-rounder could add depth to the Giants’ lower middle order and provide a versatile bowling option with her pace, making her a valuable multi-dimensional player.
Megan Schutt:
The experienced Australian pacer, who was the leading wicket-taker for Australia in the T20 World Cup, could strengthen the Giants’ bowling attack. Her ability to bowl in crucial overs adds versatility to the side.
After two consecutive seasons at the bottom of the table, the Giants are determined to set up a successful campaign. The upcoming auction could be pivotal in shaping their title aspirations.
* asterisk indicates overseas players
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