WPL 2023: 5 youngsters to watch out for

The Women’s Premier League started in an incredible manner with the Mumbai Indians (MI) crushing Gujarat Giants (GG) by 143 runs in the season opener on March 4. Riding on Saika Ishaques’ heroics with the ball MI registered a convincing victory over the Giants, while Amelia Kerr and Issy Wong also contributed to the team’s win with their fabulous spells. Noting the performances of these youngsters, it could be said that the tournament could bring the best out of young players in the upcoming games.

Earlier, in the month of February, ICC Women’s U-19 T20 World Cup performances helped franchises to pick talented youngsters in the 2023 WPL Player Auction. Relying on some of the top performers of the ICC event and in international cricket, some franchises did not hesitate to sign fresh talents. These youngsters will back themselves to showcase their talent and become notable names in the T20 league.

Here are 5 youngsters to watch out for:

5. Sonam Yadav (Mumbai Indians)

Sonam Yadav will become the youngest player to feature in the WPL. MI picked her at her base amount of INR 10 lakh In the WPL auction after seeing her performances in the ICC Women’s U-19 T20 World Cup. The 15-year-old was a part of the India U19 squad that clinched the title in the maiden Women’s U19 World Cup. 

With five wickets in six games at an economy of 7.04, Sonam contributed to her team’s phenomenal victory and looked brilliant against big teams like Australia, New Zealand and England at the U19 event. Meanwhile, MI did not include her in the playing XI in the first game, but the youngster is expected to playe in the upcoming matches.

If given a chance, she might do wonders for her team with her slow left-arm bowling. With Saika Ishaque and Amelia Kerr in the ranks, she could also add strength to the spin attack and be destructive against opponents.