Cricket enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the WPL 2024 auction on December 9, 2023, where five franchises will engage in a fierce battle to secure talent for the upcoming Women's Premier League, set to kick off in February or March.
All eyes are on the auction as the Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals, UP Warriorz, Gujarat Giants, and Royal Challengers Bangalore gear up for a bidding war involving 165 players, including 61 overseas stars, intensifying the competition.
With each franchise having the potential to acquire 30 players, the spotlight is on the overseas players, as nine slots are reserved for them. The Gujarat Giants boast the highest purse at INR 5.95 crore, while the Mumbai Indians hold the lowest at INR 2.1 crore.
Cricket aficionados eagerly await the performance of top overseas players during the auction. Let's delve into the profiles of some star players who are expected to attract attention and potentially change the fate of franchises in WPL 2024.
Known for impactful performances with bat and ball, Kim Garth, who represented Gujarat Giants in the previous season, emerges as a leading wicket-taker, showcasing her prowess with 11 wickets in 7 games.
South African pace powerhouse, Shabnim Ismail, promises to be a valuable asset with her express pace. Although not getting many games in the last season, her ability to trouble batsmen remains a compelling factor.
Australian sensation Annabel Sutherland, despite a challenging 2023 season with Gujarat, continues to be a sought-after prospect, known for her aggressive style and all-round abilities.
Representing the USA, Tara Norris brings a unique element with her pace bowling, having played for Delhi Capitals in the last edition, bagging 7 wickets in 5 games, including a notable 5-wicket haul.
The young Australian batter, Phoebe Litchfield, yet to make her mark in WPL, is on every team's radar for her stylish stroke play, potentially becoming a game-changer in the upcoming season.
Despite going unsold in the previous season, the dynamic Sri Lankan captain, Chamari Athapaththu, showcases her heroics at WBBL 2023, increasing the possibility of securing a buyer in the WPL 2024 auction.