WPL 2025 Auction: Gujarat Giants pick Simran Shaikh for Rs 1.9 crore

Bengaluru: The Women's Premier League (WPL) 2025 mini-auction saw leg-spinner Simran Shaikh emerge as the biggest acquisition, with Mumbai Indians securing her for a record Rs1.90 crore.

Simran's selection underscores her growing reputation as a game-changer in T20 cricket, making her one of the most sought-after players in the auction.

Adding to Mumbai’s stellar day, Tamil Nadu’s 16-year-old G Kamalini was picked up for Rs 1.60 crore, marking a milestone for uncapped players. Kamalini’s significant bid reflects her promising talent, making her debut in professional cricket a moment to remember.

The auction delivered more thrilling moments as West Indies all-rounder Deandra Dottin was snapped up by Gujarat Giants for Rs 1.70 crore.

Renowned for her explosive performances, Dottin recently shone in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, where she registered the most four-wicket hauls, including a memorable 4/22 against New Zealand. She also contributed 82 runs at a strike rate of 167.3, cementing her status as a marquee player.

Despite these highlights, the auction threw up surprises as prominent Indian players Sneh Rana and Poonam Yadav went unsold in the initial rounds.

Meanwhile, Royal Challengers Bengaluru signed Prema Rawat for Rs 1.2 crore, and Delhi Capitals acquired N. Charani for ?55 lakh, rounding off a dynamic day of bidding.

With the accelerated bidding round on the horizon, teams are expected to intensify their strategies to secure the best remaining talent.