Cricket Enthusiasts Eagerly Await the WPL Auction
Ahead of the much-anticipated third season of the Women’s Premier League (WPL), several prominent cricketers are being released by their respective franchises in preparation for the upcoming auction, scheduled for early December 2024.
Among the notable names being released are Sneh Rana, Poonam Yadav, Heather Knight, and Lea Tahuhu. The Gujarat Giants, who have finished at the bottom of the table in both previous WPL seasons, have decided to part ways with Rana, Tahuhu, and Kathryn Bryce, while retaining Sayali Satghare and Bharti Fulmali.
“England captain Heather Knight, who had previously withdrawn from the 2024 season due to international commitments, has been released by the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The franchise has also let go of six other players, while retaining their big names, including Smriti Mandhana, Ellyse Perry, and Sophie Devine.”
The Delhi Capitals, who were the runners-up in both WPL seasons, have released veteran Indian leg-spinner Poonam Yadav, who was once a mainstay of the national team but has not featured in international cricket since March 2022. Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians have parted ways with Fatima Jaffer, Humaira Kazi, Priyanka Bala, and England fast bowler Issy Wong, while retaining their core group of international stars.
The UP Warriorz, who made the playoffs in the first season but finished fourth in 2024, have released several players, including bowling all-rounder Parshavi Chopra, uncapped Laxmi Yadav, and England fast bowler Lauren Bell, while retaining wicket-keeper batter Uma Chetry.
As the cricket world eagerly awaits the upcoming WPL auction, these player release announcements have set the stage for an exciting roster reshuffle, with teams aiming to assemble their strongest squads for the third season.
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