The WPL 2025 Auction, held in Bengaluru on December 15, 2024, was an electrifying event that witnessed 19 talented cricketers finding their spots in the five franchises. With intense bidding wars, marquee players, and emerging prospects, this auction set the stage for the upcoming season. Here’s a detailed look at the players who were sold, franchise-wise, along with their prices and potential impact.
Players Sold in WPL 2025 Auction
Gujarat Giants
1) Deandra Dottin – INR 1.7 Crore
The West Indies all-rounder made headlines as Gujarat Giants secured her services after an intense bidding war with UP Warriorz. Known for her explosive batting and reliable medium pace, Dottin’s return from international retirement promises to be a game-changer for the Giants. Her track record in T20Is speaks volumes: 2,817 runs and 67 wickets in 132 matches. With her ability to dominate in crunch moments, Dottin will undoubtedly add firepower to Gujarat’s squad.
2) Simran Shaikh – INR 1.9 Crore
Simran Shaikh emerged as the costliest player in this auction, with Gujarat Giants shelling out a record-breaking 1.9 crore. The Mumbai batter, who previously played for UP Warriorz, made her mark in domestic cricket with 176 runs in the 2024 Senior Women’s T20 Trophy. Her consistency and ability to anchor innings make her an asset in the top order.
3) Danielle Gibson – INR 60 Lakhs
England’s dynamic all-rounder Danielle Gibson joined Gujarat Giants for a moderate price. Known for her aggressive stroke play and effective medium pace, she brings versatility to the Giants. With a strike rate of 135+ in domestic T20s, Gibson is expected to strengthen the middle order.
4) Prakashika Naik – INR 10 Lakhs
The Karnataka spinner was picked at her base price. With her ability to bowl economical spells, Naik could be a valuable asset for Gujarat Giants, especially in spin-friendly conditions.
Mumbai Indians
1) Nadine de Klerk – INR 30 Lakhs
The Proteas all-rounder, who represented RCB in WPL 2024, moved to Mumbai Indians for 30 lakhs. With 600+ runs and 50 T20I wickets, Nadine’s ability to perform under pressure strengthens Mumbai’s lower-middle order. Her knack for breaking partnerships makes her a key addition to the team.
2) G Kamalini – INR 1.6 Crore
At just 16, G Kamalini became one of the most expensive uncapped players in WPL history. The left-handed batter had a stellar domestic season, amassing 311 runs in the U19 Women’s T20 Trophy. Mumbai Indians outbid Delhi Capitals in an intense bidding war to secure her services. Her fearless batting style and composure at the crease make her a player to watch out for.
3) Sanskriti Gupta – INR 40 Lakhs
Mumbai Indians added young talent to their roster by picking Sanskriti Gupta. Known for her all-round abilities, Gupta brings balance to the team with her consistent performances in domestic tournaments.
4) Akshita Maheshwari – INR 10 Lakhs
Another uncapped player, Akshita Maheshwari, found her way into the Mumbai Indians squad. Her medium-pace bowling and sharp fielding skills add depth to Mumbai’s bowling lineup.
Delhi Capitals
1) Nandini Kashyap – INR 10 Lakhs
Delhi Capitals secured the young wicketkeeper-batter from Uttarakhand at her base price. Kashyap, who was the top scorer in the Women’s Uttarakhand Premier League, adds depth to Delhi’s batting order. Her recent domestic performances, including a century in the Senior Women’s T20 Trophy, highlight her potential.
2) N Shree Charani – INR 55 Lakhs
N Shree Charani, a left-arm spinner from Andhra Pradesh, was picked up by Delhi Capitals for 55 lakhs. With five wickets in the Senior Women’s T20 Trophy 2024, Charani’s ability to control the middle overs will be crucial for Delhi.
3) Sarah Bryce – INR 80 Lakhs
Scotland’s wicketkeeper-batter Sarah Bryce became Delhi’s marquee overseas signing. Her experience in T20 leagues across the globe and her ability to bat aggressively in the powerplay make her a significant addition to the Capitals.
4) Niki Prasad – INR 15 Lakhs
Niki Prasad, an uncapped Indian talent, was picked at her base price. Her all-round capabilities and domestic experience could provide valuable options for the Delhi Capitals lineup.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru
1) Prema Rawat – INR 1.2 Crore
RCB secured the services of Prema Rawat, an all-rounder from Uttarakhand, for 1.2 crore. Rawat’s performance in the Uttarakhand Premier League final showcased her ability to thrive under pressure. Her leg-spin and lower-order batting make her a versatile addition.
2) Joshitha VJ – INR 40 Lakhs
Joshitha VJ, a right-arm medium pacer, was RCB’s second pick. With her ability to generate bounce and movement, Joshitha adds variety to RCB’s pace attack.
3) Raghvi Bist – INR 35 Lakhs
The young batter from Uttarakhand found a place in RCB’s squad. Bist’s ability to play spin and pace with equal ease makes her a promising middle-order option.
4) Jagravi Pawar – INR 10 Lakhs
RCB completed their auction with the economical purchase of Jagravi Pawar. The left-arm spinner adds depth to RCB’s spin attack.
UP Warriorz
1) Arushi Goel – INR 10 Lakhs
UP Warriorz picked Arushi Goel, a top-order batter from Delhi, at her base price. With 590+ runs in domestic T20s, Goel’s ability to anchor innings and accelerate at the right time makes her an important pick.
2) Kranti Goud – INR 10 Lakhs
All-rounder Kranti Goud was another budget buy for UP Warriorz. Her utility with both bat and ball adds flexibility to the Warriorz lineup.
3) Alana King – INR 1.5 Crore
Australia’s leg-spinner Alana King became UP Warriorz’s marquee signing. Known for her sharp leg-spin and ability to deliver in high-pressure games, King brings experience and class to the Warriorz.
Conclusion
The WPL 2025 Auction showcased a perfect blend of experienced international stars and talented uncapped Indian players. Franchises invested heavily in young talent, signaling their focus on grooming future stars. Players like Deandra Dottin, Simran Shaikh, and Alana King are expected to make a significant impact in the upcoming season. Meanwhile, the inclusion of uncapped players like G Kamalini and Prema Rawat highlights the growing depth of women’s cricket in India.
The third edition of the WPL promises to be a thrilling season, with teams well-equipped to put on a show. Fans can look forward to seeing how these players perform and make their mark in the tournament.
FAQs
1) Who was the most expensive player in the WPL 2025 Auction?
Simran Shaikh was the most expensive player, sold to Gujarat Giants for INR 1.9 crore.
2) Which franchise made the most buys in the auction?
Mumbai Indians made four significant purchases, including the uncapped sensation G Kamalini.
3) Which international players were the top picks?
Deandra Dottin (Gujarat Giants) and Alana King (UP Warriorz) were the top international picks.
4) How many uncapped players were sold in the auction?
Several uncapped players were picked, with G Kamalini (Mumbai Indians) and Prema Rawat (RCB) making headlines.
5) When will the WPL 2025 season start?
The WPL 2025 season is expected to kick off in March 2025.
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