Mumbai Indians (MI), the inaugural champions of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2023, have once again shown their intent to build a formidable squad as they gear up for WPL 2025. With skipper Harmanpreet Kaur at the helm, MI have strengthened their team by roping in young talents and experienced players in the WPL 2025 auctions held in Bengaluru on December 15, 2024.
Mumbai Indians: A Legacy of Excellence
Mumbai Indians etched their name in history by claiming the inaugural WPL title in 2023 with a stunning 7-wicket victory over Delhi Capitals, led by Meg Lanning. However, their journey in the WPL 2024 ended in heartbreak as they were eliminated by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Eliminator, losing by just five runs in a nail-biting encounter.
After a mixed 2024 season, MI entered the 2025 auctions determined to bolster their squad. With a purse of ₹2.65 crore, they made calculated moves to build an all-round squad, signing four impactful players while retaining a solid core of experienced campaigners and young talents.
Highlights of the WPL 2025 Auction
G Kamalini: The Star Pick
One of the most significant highlights of the WPL 2025 auction was Mumbai Indians’ acquisition of India’s uncapped wicket-keeper batter G Kamalini for a whopping ₹1.60 crore, a massive leap from her base price of ₹10 lakhs.
At just 16, Kamalini has already impressed with her stellar performances in domestic cricket. Her exploits in the U19 Women’s T20 Trophy and tri-series involving India A U19 and South Africa U19 made her a sought-after prospect. Known for her fearless batting and agility behind the stumps, Kamalini will share wicket-keeping responsibilities with Yastika Bhatia, offering MI depth and flexibility in their lineup.
Other Key Acquisitions
- Nadine de Klerk (South Africa): ₹30 Lakhs
The Proteas all-rounder was another valuable addition to MI’s squad. With over 600 runs and 50 T20I wickets under her belt, de Klerk’s experience and versatility will strengthen the middle order and provide depth to the bowling attack. - Sanskriti Gupta (India): ₹10 Lakhs
Mumbai’s decision to invest in uncapped all-rounder Sanskriti Gupta reflects their focus on nurturing young talent. Gupta’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball adds balance to the squad. - Akshita Maheshwari (India): ₹20 Lakhs
Maheshwari, known for her disciplined bowling and sharp fielding, was another smart pick by MI. Her inclusion enhances Mumbai’s options in the bowling department.
Mumbai Indians Final Squad for WPL 2025
After the auction, MI finalized a well-rounded squad featuring a mix of international stars, seasoned domestic players, and promising newcomers. Here’s the full squad:
| Player | Role | Nationality |
|---|---|---|
| Harmanpreet Kaur (C) | All-rounder | India |
| Yastika Bhatia (WK) | Wicket-keeper Batter | India |
| G Kamalini (WK) | Wicket-keeper Batter | India |
| Amandeep Kaur | All-rounder | India |
| Amanjot Kaur | All-rounder | India |
| Melie Kerr | All-rounder | New Zealand |
| Chloe Tryon | All-rounder | South Africa |
| Hayley Matthews | All-rounder | West Indies |
| Jintimani Kalita | Bowler | India |
| Keerthana Balakrishnan | All-rounder | India |
| Nat Sciver-Brunt | All-rounder | England |
| Pooja Vastrakar | All-rounder | India |
| Sajeevan Sajana | Bowler | India |
| Akshita Maheshwari | Bowler | India |
| Sanskriti Gupta | All-rounder | India |
| Nadine de Klerk | All-rounder | South Africa |
| Saika Ishaque | Bowler | India |
| Shabnim Ismail | Bowler | South Africa |
Strategic Insights: Mumbai Indians’ Squad for WPL 2025
- Dynamic Wicket-Keeping Options
With Yastika Bhatia and G Kamalini, MI boasts a strong wicket-keeping duo. While Yastika provides experience and consistency, Kamalini brings youthful energy and the ability to deliver under pressure. - All-Round Excellence
MI’s squad is packed with world-class all-rounders like Melie Kerr, Hayley Matthews, and Nat Sciver-Brunt, ensuring depth in both batting and bowling. The addition of Nadine de Klerk and Chloe Tryon further strengthens their all-round capabilities. - Bowling Depth
The team’s bowling unit, led by the fiery Shabnim Ismail, includes talented spinners like Saika Ishaque and Akshita Maheshwari. This diverse attack equips MI to adapt to different conditions. - Emerging Talent
The inclusion of young players like Sanskriti Gupta and G Kamalini underscores MI’s commitment to grooming future stars. This balanced approach of blending youth with experience positions MI as strong contenders for the WPL 2025 title.
What Lies Ahead for Mumbai Indians in WPL 2025
With a formidable core retained and impactful additions from the auction, Mumbai Indians have once again proven why they are a powerhouse in the Women’s Premier League. Led by the charismatic Harmanpreet Kaur, MI has the depth and versatility to dominate the competition.
Their strategy to invest in young talents like G Kamalini while retaining seasoned players such as Nat Sciver-Brunt and Shabnim Ismail ensures they remain competitive across all departments. As the WPL 2025 season approaches, MI fans can look forward to yet another thrilling campaign.
FAQs
1. Who was Mumbai Indians’ most expensive buy in WPL 2025?
G Kamalini, the 16-year-old wicket-keeper batter, was MI’s most expensive buy at ₹1.60 crore.
2. How many players did Mumbai Indians buy in the WPL 2025 auction?
Mumbai Indians purchased four players: G Kamalini, Nadine de Klerk, Sanskriti Gupta, and Akshita Maheshwari.
3. How much money did MI have left after the auction?
Mumbai Indians had ₹45 lakhs remaining in their purse after spending ₹2.20 crore.
4. Who are the key overseas players in the MI squad for WPL 2025?
Key overseas players include Nat Sciver-Brunt (England), Amelia Kerr (New Zealand), Hayley Matthews (West Indies), Chloe Tryon (South Africa), and Shabnim Ismail (South Africa).
5. When does WPL 2025 start?
The Women’s Premier League 2025 is expected to begin in March 2025.
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