The Women’s Premier League (WPL) returns for its second edition, bringing together the best female cricketers from around the world. With five franchises boasting top-notch talent like Annabel Sutherland, Phoebe Litchfield, Laura Harris, and Marizanne Kapp, the stage is set for an electrifying season.
But amidst the established stars, a wave of young overseas talent is ready to make their mark. Let’s delve into three such players who could be breakout performers in WPL 2024:
Young overseas players to keep an eye on during WPL 2024
1. Annabel Sutherland: A Young Australian With a Point to Prove
Annabel Sutherland, the 21-year-old Australian all-rounder, had a mixed WPL 2023 experience. While she didn’t quite live up to her potential, her recent performances in ODIs and T20Is have showcased her immense potential.
Snapped up by Delhi Capitals for INR 2 crore, Sutherland will be eager to redeem herself on the big stage. Her impressive bowling figures – 23 wickets in 14 games for Melbourne Stars in WBBL 2023 – are a testament to her skills. Expect her to be a crucial cog in Delhi’s bowling attack, picking up key wickets with her pace and accuracy.
2. Kathryn Bryce: Scottish All-Rounder Ready to Make Her Mark
The Scottish all-rounder, Kathryn Bryce, is a name to watch out for in WPL 2024. Roped in by Gujarat Giants for a mere INR 10 lakh, Bryce is a steal. Her impressive record across formats speaks volumes. In ODIs, she has amassed 228 runs and 10 wickets.
In T20Is, her batting prowess shines with 1020 runs in 38 innings, and her bowling boasts 37 wickets. Her versatility makes her a valuable asset, and her ability to contribute with both bat and ball could be crucial for Gujarat’s success.
3. Issy Wong: England’s Young Pace Sensation on the Rise
At just 21, English fast bowler Issy Wong has already created ripples in international cricket. With fiery pace and deceptive swing, she has picked up 4 wickets in 3 ODIs and 7 wickets in 10 T20I matches.
Her impressive performance in WPL 2023, where she snagged 15 wickets in 10 matches for Mumbai Indians, secured her a spot in the team again this year. With her raw talent and growing experience, Wong is poised to be a key contributor for Mumbai’s bowling attack.
These three overseas players are just a glimpse into the exciting talent pool that awaits in WPL 2024. Alongside established stars, they promise to deliver thrilling performances, captivating audiences, and shaping the tournament’s narrative. As the season unfolds, keep your eyes peeled for these rising stars as they shine on the biggest stage of women’s cricket in India.
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WPL 2024: 3 Delhi Capital players who may not get a single game this season