Mumbai: In a life-changing moment at the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 mini-auction, Mumbai batter Simran Shaikh, hailing from Dharavi, Asia’s largest slum, secured a lucrative ₹1.9 crore deal with the Gujarat Giants. The 23-year-old, the daughter of an electrician, has risen to become a beacon of hope for countless aspiring athletes.
Simran’s journey began modestly. Her achievements on the domestic cricket stage, including standout performances for Mumbai and India E, were instrumental in her success. While representing Mumbai, she contributed to their Senior Women’s T20 Trophy victory, and her exploits for Team E led to a Challenger Trophy triumph.
Simran, who played for UP Warriorz in the inaugural WPL season in 2023, was the most expensive uncapped Indian player at this year’s auction, earning her the attention of cricketing circles across the country.
“She Paid No Heed to Naysayers”
Speaking to IANS, Simran’s mother shared how her daughter’s unwavering commitment silenced critics who doubted her pursuit of cricket.
“People used to tell me, ‘You should ask her to stop playing cricket.’ I worried about what others might say, but Simran was undeterred,” she recalled. “Today, those same people praise her achievements. It fills our hearts with pride.”
The Shaikh family lives in a cramped 10×16 room in Dharavi, where Simran, the third of seven siblings, juggled her dreams and responsibilities. Her father, Zahid Ali, expressed the family’s joy:
“When her name was announced at the auction, there were tears of happiness. We are now considering getting a flat to improve our living conditions and provide a better future for the family.”
A Meteoric Rise in Form
Simran’s improvement since her WPL debut has been remarkable. In WPL 2023, she managed 29 runs in nine matches for UP Warriorz. However, her performance in domestic cricket this year showcased her growth.
During the Senior Women’s T20 Trophy, Simran scored 176 runs in 11 matches at an average of 22 and a strike rate of 100.57. Her explosive form in the T20 Challenger Trophy was even more striking. Over five innings, she scored 40 runs with a jaw-dropping strike rate of 202.50, smashing seven sixes and six fours.
This consistency not only boosted her confidence but also caught the eye of scouts, culminating in her historic WPL deal.
A Beacon of Hope
Simran Shaikh’s story is a shining example of what hard work, determination, and family support can achieve. From the narrow alleys of Dharavi to the glittering stage of the WPL, her journey is a source of inspiration for young athletes across the nation.
As Simran gears up for the 2025 WPL season with the Gujarat Giants, she carries with her not just the hopes of her family but also the aspirations of millions who dare to dream big despite their circumstances.
