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Simran Shaikh, a 22-year-old from Dharavi, made history at the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 auction. She was bought by Gujarat Giants for a whopping ₹1.9 crore, becoming the most expensive player in this year's auction. Simran’s journey is a true testament to perseverance, passion, and hard work.
Simran’s Journey: From Struggles to Stardom
Starting with Gully Cricket
Simran began her cricketing journey in the narrow lanes of Dharavi, playing gully cricket. Her passion for the sport faced challenges, as neighbors questioned her commitment and advised her parents to focus on household chores instead. Despite this, Simran remained determined and worked hard to prove herself.
Facing Criticism from Neighbors
Recalling her childhood, Simran said, "When I played cricket with boys, neighbors would ask, ‘Why is a girl playing with boys? Go home and do household work.’ Their comments hurt me, but they motivated me to prove myself in cricket."
WPL 2024: A Setback Turned into a Comeback
In WPL’s first edition, Simran was signed by UP Warriors for ₹10 lakh but failed to impress, scoring just 29 runs in nine matches. She went unsold in the 2024 auction. However, her determination didn’t falter. Early in 2024, she made a stellar comeback with consistent performances that caught the attention of Gujarat Giants' management, earning her a spot in the team and a record-breaking deal.
Simran’s Love for Virat Kohli
Simran is a big fan of Virat Kohli and dreams of meeting him one day. Speaking to the media after the auction, she said, "My journey has just begun. I want to work hard, give my best, and earn another jersey—the Indian team jersey. I admire Virat Kohli a lot, and my dream is to meet him."
