In a bidding frenzy that captivated Mumbai cricket fans, teenage sensation Ira Jadhav became the talk of the town after Akash Tigers shelled out a record 10 lakh rupees for her services in the T20 Mumbai Women’s League auction. Held on Saturday, the auction featured 363 players vying for spots across three teams, with franchises collectively investing 1.47 crore to lock in their inaugural season rosters.
The 16-year-old Ira, celebrated for her pioneering triple century in U-19 cricket last year, couldn’t hide her excitement. She thanked MCA and her new team, highlighting Wankhede Stadium as a pivotal platform for growth. ‘I’m thrilled and ready to deliver my best,’ she added.
The league’s icon players – Sayali Satghare (Sobo Mumbai Falcons), Saima Thakur (Thane Sky Risers), and Humaira Kazi (Akash Tigers) – anchored their sides. Standout purchases featured Sanika Chalke (5.50 lakhs, Akash Tigers), Vrushali Bhagat (6 lakhs, Thane Sky Risers), and Simran Sheikh (7 lakhs, Sobo Mumbai Falcons).
Thane Sky Risers fortified with Soumya Singh (4 lakhs) and Mahak Poker (3.25 lakhs). Sobo Mumbai Falcons grabbed Riya Chaudhary (5.50 lakhs) and multiple 1-3 lakh talents. Akash Tigers complemented Ira with Jagravi Pawar and Manali Dakshini, both at 3.75 lakhs.
Detailed lineups showcase depth:
**Sobo Mumbai Falcons**: Icon Sayali Satghare leads Simran Sheikh (7L), Riya Chaudhary (5.5L), Harley Gala (5L), and others like Reshma Nairk (2.5L), Siddheshwari Pagdhare (2.5L).
**Thane Sky Risers**: Saima Thakor heads Vrushali Bhagat (6L), Khushi Bhatia (4.5L), Jil Dimelo (4.5L), Soumya Singh (4L), Mahak Poker (3.25L).
**Akash Tigers**: Humaira Kazi with Ira Jadhav (10L), Sanika Chalke (5.5L), Fatima Jaffer (4.25L), Jagravi Pawar (3.75L), Manali Dakshini (3.75L).
As the league gears up, expect fierce rivalries and breakout performances from these power-packed teams.
