Uncapped Players in WPL Who Deserve National Call-Up
MI won the WPL title [WPLT20.COM]
The first edition of the WPL, a near-month-long carnival, reached its conclusion on 26th March, with Mumbai Indians lifting the coveted trophy. The inaugural season had everything–one-sided contests, thrillers, umpiring controversies, and delightful performances with the bat and ball.
But, what was one of the key motives of the WPL? To provide a platform for the domestic players to showcase their skills; to bring them into the limelight; to broaden knowledge among the public about the reserve talent pool.
Did the WPL succeed in this mission? Yes, to some extent. Some uncapped players made it a point not to waste this golden opportunity. Here’s looking at those consistent domestic performers who now deserve a national call-up.
Saika Ishaque
Saika Ishaque scalped 15 wickets in the WPL. (Source: wplT20.com)
A mainstay in Bengal’s domestic side, Saika Ishaque grabbed eyeballs, donning the Purple Cap for a major part of the tournament. Although leapfrogged ultimately by her Mumbai Indians’ teammate, Hayley Matthews, Saika proved she’s made for the big stage.
The Indian Women’s team has been struggling to dominate with its spin prowess. Wickets have dried up for the likes of Rajeshwari Gayakwad and Radha Yadav in the recent past. With 15 wickets in 10 matches at an average of 16.27, surely Saika walks into the national T20I squad? The passionate, lion-hearted left-arm spinner would definitely hope so.
Parshavi Chopra
Should a U-19 star be fast-tracked into the national side on the basis of performances in franchise cricket? Fans and cricket pundits will find themselves on either side of the debate. But, in the case of UP Warriorz’ Parshavi Chopra, there might be a consensus.
Although playing just four matches (in the later stage) and picking three wickets, Parshavi Chopra has made a strong case for herself. A skilled leggie, who can mix it up with googlies at will, the 16-year-old can add variety to the Indian senior side. With Poonam Yadav’s form deterioration and her sidelining, Parshavi can fill the shoes.
Warrant an example of her temperament? After being belted by Nat Sciver-Brunt for 14 runs in the first three balls of an over, Parshavi beat Harmanpreet Kaur all ends up with a cracking googly.
Honourable mention: Kanika Ahuja
Who was the star performer with the bat in RCB’s first win of the league after five consecutive defeats? No, it was not Smriti Mandhana or Sophie Devine or Ellyse Perry. It was the little-known Kanika Ahuja who stole the limelight. With a 30-ball 46 laced with eight fours and a six, Kanika announced herself on the grand stage. Also being someone who can contribute with the ball, she might get a call-up soon.
Will we see these fresh faces in the Indian T20I squad soon? I hope so.
 "Nidhi Lohia")
