The second edition of the Women’s Premier League (WPL 2024) faces a double setback with talented young players Kashvee Gautam and Kanika Ahuja ruled out due to injuries.
For Gujarat Giants, the loss of uncapped all-rounder Gautam is a major blow. The 20-year-old grabbed attention with a stellar performance at the Senior Women’s T20 Trophy, claiming 12 wickets and earning a call-up to India A. At the WPL auction, she became the most expensive uncapped Indian with a staggering INR 2 crore price tag. However, Sayali Satghare, another uncapped all-rounder, will step in as her replacement.
Royal Challengers Bangalore also faces a setback with the absence of experienced all-rounder Kanika Ahuja. Ahuja impressed last season, contributing 98 runs and 2 wickets across seven matches. In her place, Maharashtra’s Shradda Pokharkar enters the fray. Both replacements were signed at the reserve price of INR 10 lakh.
The news comes as a disappointment for fans excited to see these rising stars showcase their talent. However, the substitutes bring their own strengths to the table. Satghare impressed with 8 wickets in the Senior Women’s T20 Trophy, while Pokharkar’s all-round abilities shine through her domestic performances.
Despite the setbacks, the WPL promises an exciting inaugural season with a mix of established stars and emerging talent vying for glory. The tournament kicks off on February 23rd, with all eyes on how the replacements fare and which team rises to the challenge.
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