Ira Jadhav Tops T20 Mumbai Women's League Auction with ₹10 Lakh Bid
Inaugural T20 Mumbai Women's League Auction Highlights
In a groundbreaking event for women's cricket, teenager Ira Jadhav was the top acquisition at the first T20 Mumbai Women's League auction, held today in Mumbai, securing a bid of ₹10 lakh from Aakash Tigers. This auction marks a significant milestone for the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) as it embarks on a new journey for women's cricket in the region. A total of 363 players were auctioned, with franchises focusing on a balanced mix of young talent and experienced domestic players. The total expenditure at the auction reached ₹1.47 crore, with 50 players being selected.
Ira Jadhav: A Rising Star
Ira gained recognition last year as the first Indian to score a triple century in U-19 cricket, making her the standout choice in this auction. This selection underscores the league's commitment to showcasing emerging talent.
Key Signings and Team Composition
The MCA previously announced the Icon Players, including Sayali Satghare (SoBo Mumbai Falcons), Saima Thakor (Thane Sky Risers), and Humaira Kazi (Aakash Tigers), who will lead their respective teams.
Noteworthy signings included Sanika Chalke, the vice-captain of the India U-19 World Cup-winning team, who was acquired by Aakash Tigers for ₹5.50 lakh.
Thane Sky Risers made significant additions with Vrushali Bhagat (₹6 lakh), Khushi Bhatia (₹4.50 lakh), and Zeal Dmello (₹4.50 lakh).
SoBo Mumbai Falcons built a strong roster featuring Simran Shaikh (₹7 lakh), Hurley Gala (₹5 lakh), and Riya Chaudhari (₹5.50 lakh).
Aakash Tigers further enhanced their squad with Fatima Jaffer (₹4.25 lakh), Mitali Mhatre (₹2.75 lakh), and Jeeya Mandrawadkar (₹1.50 lakh).
Empowering Women's Cricket
The T20 Mumbai Women's League aims to fortify the women's cricket framework in the city by offering a competitive environment for talent discovery and growth. This initiative reflects the MCA's dedication to establishing a sustainable pathway for women's cricket, creating opportunities for players to advance to higher levels.
Reactions to the Auction
Ira expressed her enthusiasm about joining the league, stating, "I am truly thankful to MCA and Aakash Tigers for their trust in me. I am excited and hope to make the most of this opportunity. It’s a great exposure for young players like me, and having facilities like the Wankhede Stadium is a significant stepping stone for all of us."
MCA President Ajinkya Naik emphasized the importance of the auction in enhancing women's cricket, noting, "This inaugural auction is a crucial step in our vision to strengthen the women's cricket ecosystem. The emergence of young talents like Ira Jadhav showcases the potential within our grassroots structure and the opportunities this league will create."
Rajdip Gupta, Chairman of the League Governing Council, remarked that the auction has laid a solid foundation for a competitive and well-organized tournament.
Complete Team Rosters
SoBo Mumbai Falcons: Sayali Satghare (Icon Player), Simran Shaikh (₹7 lakh), Hurley Gala (₹5 lakh), Riya Chaudhari (₹5.50 lakh), Akshaya Shinde (₹3.25 lakh), Megan Rodrigues (₹1 lakh), Janhvi Kate (₹3.25 lakh), Vedika Nikam (₹1 lakh), Sanmaya Upadhyay (₹1 lakh), Saumyaa Tamang (₹1 lakh), Aarohi Bambode (₹2 lakh), Yashika Rawat (₹1 lakh), Reshma Nayrak (₹2.50 lakh), Swara Jadhav (₹1.50 lakh), Siddheshwari Pagdhare (₹2.50 lakh), Sarika Koli (₹2 lakh), Vanshika Kothakar (₹1 lakh).
Thane Sky Risers: Saima Thakor (Icon Player), Vrushali Bhagat (₹6 lakh), Khushi Bhatia (₹4.50 lakh), Zeal Dmello (₹4.50 lakh), Mansi Patil (₹2.75 lakh), Ashwini Nishad (₹2 lakh), Soumya Singh (₹4 lakh), Kashish Nirmal (₹3 lakh), Prakashikha Naik (₹2 lakh), Trisha Parmar (₹1 lakh), Kinjal Kumari (₹2.75 lakh), Nivya Ambre (₹2 lakh), Shourya Kadam (₹1 lakh), Heeya Pandit (₹1 lakh), Diya Chalwad (₹1 lakh), Mahek Pokar (₹3.25 lakh).
Aakash Tigers: Humaira Kazi (Icon Player), Ira Jadhav (₹10 lakh), Sanika Chalke (₹5.50 lakh), Fatima Jaffer (₹4.25 lakh), Jeeya Mandrawadkar (₹1.50 lakh), Siddhi Pawar (₹1.75 lakh), Manali Dakshini (₹3.75 lakh), Siddhi Kamthe (₹1 lakh), Jagravi Pawar (₹3.75 lakh), Ritika Yadav (₹1.25 lakh), Kimaya Rane (₹1 lakh), Batul Pereira (₹2 lakh), Mitali Mhatre (₹2.75 lakh), Mulla Alina Farid (₹1 lakh), Samruddhi Rawool (₹2 lakh), Gargee Warang (₹1 lakh).