WPL 2023 | Mithali Raj asked me to coach Gujarat Giants: Rachael Haynes

Rachael Haynes announced her retirement in September 2022

The Women's Premier League (WPL) is already attracting big names, with several national and international players joining various franchises in a coaching and mentoring capacity.

Former Australian opener Rachael Haynes, after announcing her retirement in September last year, will be seen in a new role in the WPL donning the head coach's hat for the Gujarat Giants. 

Haynes in an interview with India Today revealed that it was former India captain Mithali Raj, who asked her to join the Adani Sportsline-run Giants as head coach.

Here's what Haynes said

"This opportunity popped up to coach the side. I was really excited when Mithali contacted me and asked if I would be interested."

Raj, who is the mentor of the side, will work alongside Haynes, Nooshin Al Khadeer (bowling coach), Tushar Arothe (batting coach), and Gavan Twining (fielding coach).  

The 36-year-old further said that coaching will be challenging, but is looking forward to making noteworthy contribution off the field.

Haynes heading into the WPL auction, scheduled for February 13, said she would want players like Alyssa Healy, Smriti Mandhana, Harmanpreet Kaur, Deepti Sharma, and Beth Mooney in Giants' side. 

The WPL will begin on March 4 and will take place in Mumbai, across two venues, with the final being held on 26. 

Also Read: WPL Auction; Harman, Mandhana, Verma in highest bidding bracket