The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 is set to witness a much anticipated player auction on December 15, as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed the participation of 120 players in the event. This diverse player pool includes 91 Indian players and 29 overseas players, with three hailing from associate nations. The auction holds immense significance as franchises aim to refine their squads for the upcoming season, following the retention announcements on November 7.
Limited slots and financial strategies
The auction dynamics are intriguing, with only nine capped Indian players and eight uncapped overseas players available. With 19 slots open across all teams – 14 for Indian players and five for overseas talent – most franchises are focusing on retaining their core lineup. The Gujarat Giants (GG) stand out with the highest available purse of INR 4.4 crore, providing them significant flexibility in the auction. In contrast, the Delhi Capitals (DC), two-time runners-up, will operate with a relatively tighter budget of INR 2.5 crore. The event is scheduled to take place in Bengaluru on Sunday, December 15.
Spotlight on Lauren Bell
Among the registered players, England’s Lauren Bell has emerged as a notable name. Valued at INR 30 lakhs, the tall pacer, known for her ability to extract bounce, was previously associated with the UP Warriorz in the inaugural WPL 2023 season but did not feature in any matches. Released ahead of the upcoming auction, Bell’s consistent international performances make her an attractive option for teams seeking to bolster their pace attacks.
Bell’s performance in T20Is for England
Bell, a promising fast bowler for England, has showcased her talent in the T20 International (T20I) format with impressive statistics that underline her consistency and effectiveness. Having played 27 matches, she has bowled 566 deliveries, conceding 659 runs while picking up 35 wickets. Bell’s best bowling performance in a T20I match stands at 4/12, which is also her career-best figures.
Her bowling average of 18.82 highlights her knack for providing crucial breakthroughs, while her economy rate of 6.98 reflects her ability to maintain control even in high-pressure situations. Furthermore, Bell’s strike rate of 16.1 emphasizes her capability to take wickets regularly, making her a reliable asset in England’s bowling lineup.
Despite not having recorded any five-wicket hauls, Bell’s consistent performances, including one four-wicket haul, demonstrate her prowess as a bowler who thrives in the shortest format of the game. As she continues to develop her craft, Bell remains a key player for England, with the potential to deliver match-winning performances in the future.
Also READ: WPL 2025 Retention: Complete list of players retained and released ahead of the auction
Women’s Premier League 2025: 3 teams that can target Bell in the auction
1. UP Warriorz: A potential reunion
The Warriorz, who initially secured Bell in the inaugural 2023 auction, may revisit the idea of adding her to their squad. Despite not featuring in a single match during her first stint, Bell’s credentials as a bowler with the ability to generate bounce and trouble batters in various conditions remain undeniable. Head coach Jon Lewis has recently publicly hinted at the possibility of her return, emphasizing the franchise’s appreciation for her skill set and the belief that she could play a significant role in their future campaigns.
Bell’s versatility, stemming from her experience across all three formats at the international level, makes her a valuable asset for the Warriorz. As they seek to strengthen their pace department, Bell’s re-entry could bring a mix of consistency, adaptability, and fresh energy to the squad. Her familiarity with the team’s structure and ethos further bolsters her case, making her a strong contender for a second chance with the Warriorz.
2. Mumbai Indians: Fortifying the pace battery
The Mumbai Indians, led by the formidable Shabnim Ismail in the pace department, might also eye Bell as an ideal candidate to enhance their bowling lineup. With the recent release of Issy Wong, Mumbai’s need for another overseas pacer is evident. Bell’s height and ability to extract bounce from surfaces, coupled with her knack for delivering in critical moments, make her a perfect fit for the team’s strategy.
Mumbai have traditionally relied on a balanced attack, and Bell’s inclusion would add depth and variety to their bowling arsenal. Pairing Bell with Ismail could create a potent combination, giving the team a robust pace unit capable of challenging any batting lineup. Additionally, Bell’s relatively affordable base price of INR 30 lakhs allows Mumbai to invest in other areas without overstretching their budget. Her international experience and track record make her a strategic acquisition for the franchise’s long-term vision.
3. Gujarat Giants: Filling the overseas pacer void
The Giants will enter the WPL 2025 auction with the highest available purse of INR 4.4 crore, offering them unmatched financial flexibility. Despite their significant budget, the franchise retained a squad lacking the presence of an overseas pacer, leaving a crucial gap in their bowling attack. Furthermore, the absence of any capped overseas pacer in their current lineup suggests an area that requires immediate attention.
Bell could be an ideal fit for the Giants. Her height, ability to extract bounce, and international experience make her a valuable asset for a franchise looking to establish dominance in their pace unit. The Giants have also faced criticism from fans in previous seasons for lacking depth in their pace attack, particularly in high-pressure matches. Bell’s addition could address this weakness while providing leadership in the bowling department.
Given her relatively modest base price of INR 30 lakhs, Bell represents a strategic investment for the Giants. Her inclusion would not only enhance the team’s pace options but also bring much-needed international experience to a squad that has yet to feature an impactful overseas seamer. This move could turn out to be a game-changer for Giants in the upcoming season.
Also READ: Women’s Premier League: Complete list of players for the WPL 2025 auction with their base price
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.