What is the Women's Premier League (WPL) auction?

The WPL auction is an event where franchises bid to sign players for the upcoming season of the Women's Premier League.

Why were some talented players unsold at the WPL auction?

Limited franchise budgets and a large pool of talented players mean that not all cricketers, even skilled ones, secure a bid.

How have conditions for women cricketers improved over time?

Conditions have significantly improved with parity in match fees, better travel, accommodation, and access to professional support staff.

Home / Sports / Beyond the Auction: The Resilience of India's Rising Women Cricketers

Beyond the Auction: The Resilience of India's Rising Women Cricketers

21 Dec

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Summary

Young women cricketers faced intense emotional pressure during WPL auctions.
Despite talent, many promising players were left unsold, facing disappointment.
The coach recalled past struggles, highlighting improved conditions for players.

Beyond the Auction: The Resilience of India's Rising Women Cricketers

While the spectacle of the Indian Premier League auctions recently drew global attention, a more intimate and high-stakes scene unfolded weeks earlier for a group of young female cricketers. During an Under-23 T20 match in northern India, the talent on display was undeniable. Among them were M, a composed leader and classical batter; S, a dynamic spinner; P, a prodigious talent already recognized at the national level; and D, a skilled player with a bright future.

These four athletes were among the 277 players listed for the Women's Premier League (WPL) auction. Their coach, a former international player, watched with a mix of pride and anxiety. Having played in an era of minimal financial support and difficult travel conditions, she noted how much the game has evolved. Today, players benefit from pay parity in match fees and professional support staff, making the stakes of a WPL contract life-changing.