Five players who could fetch big during the inaugural WPL Auction


image-le1ihc2iDeepti Sharma (Source: Twitter)

The history is all set to be made on the 13th of February when the women cricketers will go under the hammer for the first time in history and change the fortunes of many forever. Lives will transform, and so, will the way how we consume women's sports. 

The revolution is here, and we can't wait to get started. But before that, let's put some emphasis on those five players who could earn big and have a great payday.

1. Deepti Sharma

India's premier all-rounder Deepti Sharma has been in the circuit for almost a decade, where she has lifted her side on numerous occasions both with bat and ball. 

Sharma has played 87 T20I matches where she has thumped 914 runs with 96 wickets and presents another opportunity with her canny mindset. She can score some quick runs down the order making her an interesting prospect for franchises to bet big on her.

2. Ellyse Perry

One of the most commanding superstars in the women's game, Ellyse Perry has been ruling the world cricket for more than a decade as she possesses an incredible skill-set of bowling medium pace with marvellous power-hitting ability. 

Perry could attract more than a few bids as teams will be keen to attain her services, providing her with a handsome amount. Moreover, with over 1500 runs and 120 wickets, there should be no doubt about her ability to sustain in the format.

3. Harmanpreet Kaur

Long-time captain of India, Harmanpreet Kaur is all set to ignite a bidding war between all sides for sure. Known for her massive sixes, she has been incredible throughout her career. 

Apart from her batting, the captaincy option adds further value to her resume, which also includes classic off-breaks. Kaur has an experience of about 146 T20 internationals, amassing close to whopping 3000 runs while having 32 wickets too.

Fresh from a five-wicket haul against the West Indies in the World Cup, Ashleigh Gardner has definitely grabbed some eyeballs. The 25-year-old is an important member of the determined Australian side who have been dominating the world for the past few years. 

Gardner could be useful on slow Indian wickets, where she was the joint-highest wicket-taker during their recent series on the subcontinent series. More than that, her strike rate of 133 will give teams some confidence too.

5. Smriti Mandhana

Stylish left-handed opening batter, Smriti Mandhana has been fairly aggressive for the Women in Blue with her wonderful shot-making ability as the exquisite timer of the cricket ball. 

Her repertoire includes 2,651 runs at a strike rate of 123 in 112 matches, making the think tanks of various sides save some bucks for her. Mandhana has some outstanding exposure to the leagues before as she has represented Brisbane Heat, Sydney Thunder and Southern Brave.


Special Mentions

Nat Sciver-Brunt: As has been the case, Natalie Sciver-Brunt is certain to be on the radar of many franchises, who would get the chance to utilize her comprehensive capabilities. With about 2000 runs in the format, expect some fight for her.

Tahlia McGrath: Australian all-rounders are in high demand during the men's auction, and the case is going to be no different this time around as well. Tahlia McGrath might be the favourite among the sides.

So, all in readiness, the actual game is won on the auction table before the real action happens. Join us for detailed coverage of the event that begins at 2:30 PM IST on Monday.