WPL 2025: Shocking Player Releases Rock WPL 2025 Auction!

Rana, Poonam, and Tahuhu Released Ahead of WPL 2025 Auction

The Women’s Premier League (WPL) is gearing up for its third season in early 2025, with teams making significant roster changes ahead of the December auction. Among the headline departures are seasoned players Sneh Rana, Poonam Yadav, and Lea Tahuhu, released by their respective franchises as they recalibrate strategies and lineups. The release of these players signals a potential shift in team dynamics as franchises look to bring in fresh talent and strengthen their squads.

Sneh Rana’s Journey with Gujarat Giants

Sneh Rana, once a key player for Gujarat Giants (GG), has been released after two challenging seasons. Rana initially captained GG in the WPL 2023 season when Beth Mooney, the team captain, faced an early injury. Despite her all-rounder skills and leadership, Rana struggled to make a significant impact, with only six wickets and 47 runs in 12 matches across two seasons. This underperformance may have contributed to the team’s decision to release her as they focus on rebuilding.

Poonam Yadav’s Release from Delhi Capitals

Delhi Capitals (DC), the runner-up in both seasons of the WPL, decided to part ways with veteran leg-spinner Poonam Yadav. Known for her unorthodox leg-spin, Yadav was once a fixture in India’s national team. However, she did not play a single match in the 2024 WPL season and has been out of international cricket since 2022. This release reflects DC’s likely shift toward younger players with a higher potential for consistent performance.

Lea Tahuhu’s Limited Role with Gujarat Giants

New Zealand’s experienced fast bowler Lea Tahuhu also finds herself on the list of released players. Tahuhu’s role in GG was minimal in the 2024 season, where she played only two games, claiming a single wicket. GG’s decision to release her aligns with their broader roster shake-up as they seek to elevate local talent and possibly allocate resources toward emerging players.

Other Key Releases Across Franchises

In addition to Rana, Yadav, and Tahuhu, other notable releases include:

• Kathryn Bryce (Scotland captain): She participated in eight games in 2024, following her release from the Gujarat Giants.
• Laura Harris The Australian top-order batter was let go by the Delhi Capitals after playing only a few matches.
• Issy Wong (England fast bowler): Released by Mumbai Indians after a disappointing season.

These moves highlight each franchise’s strategy to build a more robust core team while letting go of players with limited impact. Mumbai Indians and UP Warriors have retained some of their top-performing players, indicating their intention to maintain a strong foundation for the upcoming season.

Also read: Delhi Capitals and Royal Challengers Bangalore Vie for Maiden Title

Franchise Strategies Going into the 2025 Auction

With the WPL 2025 auction scheduled for December, franchises are positioning themselves to acquire talent that can fill existing gaps. The teams’ release strategies indicate a desire for adaptability, fresh talent, and perhaps a younger roster. Retained players such as Harmanpreet Kaur and Amelia Kerr will be central to Mumbai Indians’ strategy, while Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Giants will likely focus on filling the voids left by players like Poonam and Rana.

Learn more about Harmanpreet Kaur, The Trailblazing Star of Women’s Cricket.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Why were Sneh Rana, Poonam Yadav, and Lea Tahuhu released ahead of the WPL 2025 auction?

Each of these players had limited impact during their respective seasons, leading franchises to explore alternative options to strengthen their squads.

Q2: When is the WPL 2025 auction scheduled?

A: The auction is anticipated to take place in early December 2024.

Q3: Which franchises released notable players?

Gujarat Giants, Delhi Capitals, Mumbai Indians, and UP Warriors have all made notable releases.