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Ratnagiri Jets Sign Smriti Mandhana For Next Three Seasons Of WMPL

Soumyajit Dutta

Smriti Mandhana [Source: @RatnagiriJets/X]Smriti Mandhana [Source: @RatnagiriJets/X]

Two-time Maharashtra Premier League (MPL) champions Ratnagiri Jets have expanded their legacy by entering the Women’s Maharashtra Premier League (WMPL), marking their official foray into women’s cricket. 

Notably, the franchise, renowned for its dominance in the men’s circuit, has roped in Indian vice-captain Smriti Mandhana as their marquee icon player for the next three seasons. 

Ratnagiri Jets Lock In Mandhana As Marquee Player

Fresh off winning the BCCI’s Best International Cricketer (Women) award for 2023–24, Mandhana’s signing signals the Jets’ ambition to replicate their men’s success in the WMPL, set to kick off in May 2025 after player auctions in April.

Rooted in Maharashtra’s cricketing culture, the Ratnagiri Jets aim to build a powerhouse team while prioritizing grassroots development and gender equity. 

Backed by co-owners JetSynthesys, Royal Goldfieldd Club Resort, Fleetguard Filters, and Kranti Wines, the franchise is doubling down on its community-first ethos to nurture talent and inspire a new generation of female athletes.

Mandhana Shares Her Vision With Jets

Expressing her enthusiasm, Mandhana stated, “I’m thrilled to join the Ratnagiri Jets family as their icon player. The franchise has demonstrated success in the MPL and a clear vision for the women’s game."

"I’m excited to play a part in shaping the next chapter of this journey and cannot wait to hit the ground running with my new teammates. Together, we aim to inspire and win hearts both on and off the field," added Mandhana.

The Jets’ leadership echoed a unified commitment to the women’s game. Rajan Navani, CEO of JetSynthesys, emphasized, “Expanding into the WMPL is a natural progression. Smriti’s signing reflects our belief in women’s cricket’s potential. Her leadership will elevate the team and inspire young talent.” 

With the WMPL auctions around the corner, the Jets are focused on strategic talent scouting, team-building, and community outreach. Their blueprint blends Mandhana’s experience with a mission to unearth local talent, setting the stage for a landmark debut season in Maharashtra’s women’s cricket revolution.