Predicting 1 top Overseas player who can be released by each WPL 2024 team ft. Shabnim Ismail
As the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2025 season is soon approaching, all eyes are now on the upcoming retention window. Teams are expected to finalize their retentions by the November 7, 2024, deadline, and with a limited number of overseas spots available, some high-profile international players could face the axe.
The decision to retain or release a player often comes down to their performances during the season and their overall impact on the team.
The 2024 edition of WPL showcased intense competition, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) emerging as the champions for the first time. Several overseas players left an impression with their performances, while others may not have lived up to the expectations set upon them at the start of the season.
Each team will need to make tough decisions about which players to retain and which to release.
Here is a look at one top overseas player from each team who could potentially be released by their respective franchise before WPL 2025.
1 top Overseas player who can be released by each WPL 2024 team
Delhi Capitals: Annabel Sutherland
Despite being one of the most expensive buys at the WPL 2024 auction, Annabel Sutherland did not make a significant impact during the season. Bought for INR 2 crore after a bidding war, Sutherland was expected to contribute with both the bat and the ball.
However, she managed just 27 runs and one wicket in the 2024 season, failing to justify her hefty price tag. Given her underwhelming performances, Delhi Capitals might consider releasing her in favor of a more consistent overseas talent.
Gujarat Giants: Lea Tahuhu
Lea Tahuhu was named as a replacement for Lauren Cheatle before WPL 2024, but her time in the league was not as impactful as anticipated. Having remained unsold initially, Tahuhu was brought in to provide experience to the Gujarat Giants' bowling attack.
However, in her two matches, she picked up only one wicket, which could lead to her release. Her lack of game time and limited impact with the ball could result in Gujarat seeking a more potent overseas bowler for the 2025 season.
Mumbai Indians: Shabnim Ismail
Shabnim Ismail, who was acquired by Mumbai Indians for INR 1.2 crore in the 2024 auction, had a decent, but not exceptional, season. Playing seven matches, she picked up eight wickets with an average of 21.62.
While she provided value in the bowling department, her performance may not have been enough to justify her cost, especially with Mumbai’s focus on strengthening their overseas slots. Given her age and the possibility of fresh talents in the auction, Ismail could be one of the players let go before the 2025 season.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Kate Cross
Kate Cross, the experienced English pacer, was bought by RCB for INR 30 lakh ahead of the 2024 season. However, despite her experience, she did not play a single match during the season and spent the entire tournament on the bench.
This lack of game time and impact means that RCB may decide to release her. With her fellow countrymate Danni Wyatt traded into RCB, the franchise will have to release at least one overseas player, who could most likely be Kate Cross.
UP Warriorz: Tahlia McGrath
Tahlia McGrath, one of the most sought-after all-rounders at the inaugural WPL auction, had a forgettable 2024 season. Bought for INR 1.4 crore, McGrath was expected to deliver with both the bat and the ball. She scored 302 runs in the 2023 season.
However, she struggled last season, scoring only 27 runs in four matches and picking up just one wicket at an economy rate of 10.37. Considering her poor form and the possibility of better overseas options available for the 2025 season, UP Warriorz may look to release McGrath.