The WPL has gained a status of immense glory ever since the BCCI unit managing women’s cricket announced the formation of an IPL-like franchise-level cricket league for women cricketers. This tournament is known to draw the attention of national and international women cricketers, just like the WBBL in Australia. 
 
The domestic Indian cricketers get their opportunity to play alongside international greats from other nations and prove their calibre in the game. 
 
Franchises like Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Giants, Delhi Capitals, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Challengers_Bangalore_(WPL)">Royal Challengers Bangalore</a>, and UP Warriorz have released only a few of their players, while only 19 slots remain for all these sides to acquire the likes of new players. 
 
<h2 dir="ltr">Let’s take a look at the 5 players who can be the biggest picks in the upcoming auction:</h2>
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<h3 dir="ltr" role="presentation">Sneh Rana</h3>
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The Indian spinner has been released by his old franchise, the Gujarat Giants, though he even captained them in the absence of Beth Mooney. The off-spinner has been a great option in the format for the national side as well. 
 
Sneh Rana might be the one who will solve the need for any team's spin option, as the Indian player is one of the best options for the same. 
 
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<h3 dir="ltr" role="presentation">Amanda Jade-Wellington</h3>
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The Australian all-rounder always holds a special place in the franchises, as the all-rounder is known for her aggressive batting intent in the lower order and also quality spin bowling antics. 
 
Wellington will be an asset to the franchises, as they need someone who can play a vital hand in chases and finishing roles down the order. 
 
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<h3 dir="ltr" role="presentation">Heather Knight </h3>
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The England skipper would undoubtedly be one of the most experienced cricketers in the mini-auction, as the player has appeared in over 250 international matches. 
 
England skipper, who previously played for RCB, has been released ahead of the auctions, as the all-rounder with great form with the bat and a cool bowling role will be crucial for any team looking to strengthen their middle order. 
 
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<h3 dir="ltr" role="presentation">Nadine de Klerk</h3>
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Nadine de Klerk, a rising talented all-rounder for the Proteas, has been recently gaining the upper hand across global competitions like the WBBL and Hundred Women. 
 
Indian WPL franchises in search of a quick-bowling all-rounder can look to rope in the Protea lower-order player into the side. 
 
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<h3 dir="ltr" role="presentation">Deandra Dottin </h3>
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Whenever it comes to women’s cricket in the shortest format, Dottin has been the most legendary name associated with the format. The player, though old now, is yet known for his extensive ability to hit the long leavers and has the most sixes in international cricket. 
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Often compared with male contemporary Chris Gayle, Dottin is undoubtedly one of the finest in the role, as teams like UP Warriorz would be in the hunt for such a player in the role. 

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/IND-vs-AUS:-Indian-cricketer-Jasprit-Bumrah-becomes-the-first-bowler-to-pick-50-Test-wickets-in-2024/">Jasprit Bumrah picked 50+ wickets in test cricket in 2024</a>

Despite minimum players slots, vital players to be included for the WPL 2025 auction

With the Women's Premier League (WPL) auction around the corner, let's have a good look at the number of players they might acquire for the upcoming edition of the WPL in search of clinching the title from defending champions RCB.

5 Players Who Can Be Top Picks in the Upcoming WPL Auction

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The last few months have been below par for the Indian cricket team. They have suffered an embarrassing series whitewash for the first time in history. It didn't stop there. After that, India also lost the highly recognised Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia for the first time in the last ten years.
That has forced the Board of Control of Cricket in India (BCCI) to review India's performance and take some strong decisions. In the recently concluded review meeting, the Indian Board has certainly taken some big decisions to make sure that all the players are available when the team needs them.
India have a big assignment coming up as they will be taking part in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, and it is important for Rohit Sharma and the team to do well. India will be playing a home series before the ICC events against England. They will play five T20Is and three ODIs.
<h2>BCCI to take action for unnecessary skipping Bilateral series - Reports</h2>
India lost the home series against New Zealand 0-3 and then suffered a 1-3 series loss in Australia. That raises questions on the future of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. These two were part of both series, and their numbers didn't do justice to their stature in the teams. Both batters failed to get big scores, which was one of the reasons for India's underperformance.
Notably, in the review meeting held in Mumbai, where chief selector Ajit Agarkar, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and captain Rohit Sharma were present, it was decided that no player will be allowed to take unnecessary rest from the bilateral series. That means any player can't pick and choose between the series that they don't want to play or not.
Earlier, seniors used to skip series, citing workload management, but it won't be the case from now on. The selection committee will decide which players should take a rest and which players will play. A source told PTI, "There was a detailed discussion on the Border-Gavaskar Trophy performance, what all went wrong, and the course correction required. But do not expect a hurried decision from the new dispensation of BCCI."
This decision might affect both Rohit and Virat. These two have missed a number of bilateral series in the past. Notably, there were some reports that these two might be rested for the coming ODI series against England. But they will be playing in the coming series now.
Also Read:<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/3-unlucky-stars-who-are-dropped-from-the-squad-for-england-t20is-one-is-the-ipl-captain/"> 3 Unlucky stars who are dropped from the squad for England T20Is; one is the IPL captain</a>

BCCI won't allow senior players to take unnecessary rest from the bilateral series.

BCCI reviews India's BGT series loss in Australia in the meeting held in Mumbai in the presence of Rohit Sharma, Gautam Gambhir and Ajit Agarkar.

"No more skipping Bilateral series" - BCCI set to take action against seniors who take unnecessary rest

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ICC Champions Trophy: As the last date of Squad submission for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is approaching, New Zealand have announced a formidable 15-men squad for the ICC event. Kane Williamson's return and the Captain-appointment of Santner are the main highlights of the announcement. 
This much-anticipated tournament marks the Champions Trophy’s return to the cricketing calendar after an eight-year hiatus. This time, the event is set to take place in Pakistan and the UAE. 
<h2>New Zealand Squad for ICC Champions Trophy Announced</h2>
The squad was announced at an event held at the Pullman Hotel in Auckland. Excitement centered on the inclusion of three promising fast bowlers: Ben Sears, Will O'Rourke, and Nathan Smith. This will be the first ICC senior event for all three players, adding a fresh dimension to the Blackcaps’ campaign.
Ben Sears, a 26-year-old pacer, has been selected despite being uncapped in ODIs. Sears has represented New Zealand in Tests and T20Is, but a knee injury kept him sidelined for much of the year. He recently returned to competitive cricket in the Super Smash.
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Will O’Rourke, another promising fast bowler, has impressed in the early stages of his international career, particularly in Tests. Nathan Smith, known for his lower-order power-hitting and seam bowling, rounds out the trio of newcomers. Head coach Gary Stead lauded their inclusion, emphasizing the depth and talent they bring to the squad.
The squad also features a balance of youth and experience. Mitchell Santner will lead the team in his first ICC tournament as captain. Santner is supported by senior players Kane Williamson, Tom Latham, and Devon Conway. 
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Williamson and Conway, however, face tight scheduling challenges due to their commitments in the SA20 league. While Latham will take on wicketkeeping duties, Williamson’s vast experience will be crucial in anchoring the batting lineup.
New Zealand’s bowling unit looks formidable, with seasoned pacers Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson providing stability. Ferguson, however, will miss the preparatory tri-series in Pakistan due to his participation in the ILT20 playoffs. Jacob Duffy has been named as a reserve player in case Ferguson’s availability becomes an issue. The spin department is equally well-stocked, featuring Santner alongside all-rounders Michael Bracewell, Glenn Phillips, and Rachin Ravindra.
<h3>New Zealand Squad</h3>
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Mitchell Santner (C), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O'Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Kane Williamson, Will Young
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The Blackcaps famously defeated India in Nairobi in 2000 to win the inaugural Champions Trophy, then called the ICC KnockOut Trophy. More recently, they have consistently performed in global events, reaching the semi-finals in four of their last five ICC tournaments.
New Zealand is grouped in Group A alongside hosts Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh. Their campaign begins with the tournament opener against Pakistan in Karachi on February 19. Only the top two teams from each group will progress to the semi-finals, making every game crucial. 
The Blackcaps’ support staff includes batting coach Luke Ronchi, bowling coach Jacob Oram, and spin coach Rangana Herath, who brings valuable subcontinental expertise. As the countdown to February begins, the team looks to build momentum and deliver a performance worthy of their reputation as one of the world’s most consistent cricketing nations.
<h3>Tri-Series Between Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa</h3>
The road to the Champions Trophy begins with a tri-series involving Pakistan and South Africa, starting on February 8. This series will serve as a vital tune-up for the team, with matches against Pakistan and South Africa on February 8 and February 10, respectively, followed by a warm-up game against Afghanistan on February 16. 
Head coach Gary Stead stressed the importance of these games, given the tournament’s compact format. “The Champions Trophy requires teams to hit the ground running, and our preparations in the tri-series will be critical,” he said.
Stead expressed confidence in the squad’s ability to rise to the occasion. “We’re fortunate to have a mix of players with significant international and tournament experience. It’s a great opportunity for the newcomers to showcase their skills on the global stage,” he added.
READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/icc-cricket-champions-trophy-2025-schedule-teams-fixtures-full-squads-time-table/">ICC Cricket Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule, Teams, Fixtures, Full Squads, &amp; Time Table</a>

New Zealand Squad For ICC Champions Trophy 2025

New Zealand announced a balanced 15-member squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, featuring fresh pacers Sears, O'Rourke, and Smith. Mitchell Santner leads, supported by seasoned players like Kane Williamson and Tom Latham.

New Zealand's 2025 Champions Trophy squad blends youth and experience, with Mitchell Santner captaining and exciting newcomers Sears, O'Rourke, and Smith.

New Zealand Squad for ICC Champions Trophy Announced; Williamson Returns as Santner Set to Lead!

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Bangladesh's elite all-rounder and former skipper Shakib Al Hasan' bowling suspension in all forms of Cricket which was given to him by the England &amp; Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is set to carry on as he failed an independent re-assessment of his bowling action, the Bangladeshi Cricket Board (BCB) confirmed on Saturday, 11th of January. 
The independent re-assessment test of the 37-year-old was conducted in Chennai'a Sri Ramachandra Centre for Sports Science in the previous month. 
"Although he is currently prohibited from bowling, Shakib Al Hasan is unquestionably allowed to play all in all the formats of the game as a pure batsman." the BCB stated in their recently released statement"
The Bangladeshi Men's National Team selectors are free to select the 37-year-old as a pure batsman for the upcoming Champions Trophy in Pakistan and UAE, which will be commencing from the 19th of February in the city of Karachi. It's worth noting that the Bangladeshi Tigers will be kicking off their Champions Trophy campaign versus the Indian Team on the 20th of February in Dubai
Shakib was handed a bowling suspension in December of 2024 after the initial independent-assessment results showed that the 37-year-old exceeded the maximum allowed elbow-extension of 15 degrees. 
He was representing the team of Surrey in the Country Cricket Championship of England and the umpires in that particular game scrutinized his bowling action. His one-off appearance for the team of Surrey was also his first in Country Cricket since the 2010-2011 season of the tournament. 
Previously in 2019 Shakib was handed a 2-yeat ban from playing Cricket after the ICC discovered that he had breached their anti-corruption policies.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/3-unlucky-stars-who-are-dropped-from-the-squad-for-england-t20is-one-is-the-ipl-captain/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">3 Unlucky stars who are dropped from the squad for England T20Is; one is the IPL captain</a>

Shakib Al Hasan of Bangladesh got suspended by the ECB for using an illegal bowling action | Image: X (Cricket 97)

Shakib Al Hasan has failed his re-assessment test and his bowling ban will continue for the time being

Shakib Al Hasan's bowling ban set to continue

Shakib Al Hasan's bowling ban set to continue after failing in reassessment test, setback for Bangladesh

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Team India will be back in action in the home series against England. Both teams will play five T20Is and three ODIs, starting on January 22. On Saturday, the Indian selection committee announced the T20I squad that will face the visitors. Suryakumar Yadav will lead the team, with Axar Patel as his deputy as the vice-captain.
The squad has similar faces that were part of the T20I series against South Africa. Most of the seniors have been rested, but still the squad is looking very strong. However, there were some big names that missed out, or one can say they were unlucky. Hence, here we will talk about three unlucky stars who are not part of the England T20Is.
<h3>Three stars who were not considered for England T20Is</h3>
3. Mayank Yadav
Indian speedster Mayank Yadav made his name for his brutal pace during the IPL 2024 when he bowled the fastest ball of the season. That helped him to make his T20I debut, and he played in a home series against Bangladesh. There were some reports that India might consider him for the coming home series. But instead, India have picked Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami, and Harshit Rana as specialist pacers, and Mayank couldn't make the cut.
2. Rajat Patidar
The RCB star has been in fine form for the last few domestic seasons. He is scoring consistently and has been in the news for his match-winning contributions for his side. He was one of the top scorers in the Syed Mustaq Ali Trophy 2024 and led his team, Madhya Pradesh, to the final. Patidar was the second-leading scorer in the tournament with 428 runs in ten matches at an average and strike rate of 61.14 and 186.08, respectively. But he will feel himself unlucky to miss out.
1. Ruturaj Gaikwad
The most unlucky player might be the captain of Chennai Super Kings, Ruturaj Gaikwad. He has been out of the team despite doing pretty well. He has been on the top of his game, but despite that, he is not getting the chances. Gaikwad has scored 633 runs in 23 T20Is for India with one century and four half-centuries. He has also led the team in this format. But he was not even considered as India stuck with Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharam, and Tilak Varma for the top order.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ilt20-2025-schedule-squads-teams-venues-captains-live-streaming-details-and-many-more/">ILT20 2025: Schedule, Squads, Teams, Venues, Captains, Live Streaming Details and Many More</a>

India will play five-match T20I series against England, starting on January 22.

Suryakumar Yadav will lead Team India in the coming five-match T20I series with Axar Patel as vice-captain.

3 Unlucky stars who are dropped from the squad for England T20Is; one is the IPL captain

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In what has been a massive development, as per the reports in Times of India, it is learned that skipper Rohit Sharma had decided to retire after the Melbourne Cricket Ground Test. But 'well-wishers' urged the captain of the team not to go with the decision. 
Rohit Sharma joined the Indian team in Australia after the Perth Test as he missed the first game due to the birth of his second child. However, his return didn't go as he would've wanted as he failed badly in the rest of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 against Australia. 
Rohit Sharma batted in middle order in Adelaide and Gabba but he failed in both the games. However, after that, he decided to go up the order and that too didn't work as he failed in both innings at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne. 
<h2>Had his well-wishers from the outside didn't force him to change his mind, we could have well seen another retirement in Australia - Source on Rohit Sharma </h2>
With things not going well for him as a captain as well as the batter, Rohit Sharma had decided to retire, but well-wishers from the outside forced him to change the decision. The India captain, however, changed his mind, and hence, instead of retiring, he dropped himself. 
"Rohit had made up his mind after MCG. Had his well-wishers from the outside didn't force him to change his mind, we could have well seen another retirement in Australia," said a source aware of developments. 
Rohit Sharma had also conveyed to Gautam Gambhir about the decision to retire as well. However, the change in mind didn't go well with the head coach. The reports added that the things between the coach and the captain weren't good as they weren't on the same page in most of the decisions. 
The duo of Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir will be back in action together in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. It remains to be seen how they will fare together as the India Team has come under massive scanner for their poor performances of late.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/rohit-sharma-reaches-mumbai-bcci-to-ask-tough-questions-to-gautam-gambhir-in-review-meeting-fate-of-virat-kohli-decided-/">Rohit Sharma reaches Mumbai, BCCI to ask tough questions to Gautam Gambhir in review meeting, fate of Virat Kohli decided</a>

In what has been a massive development, as per the reports in Times of India, it is learned that skipper Rohit Sharma had decided to retire after the Melbourne Cricket Ground Test