Simran Shaikh, a 22-year-old cricketer from Dharavi, one of Mumbai’s largest slums, made headlines by securing a life-changing ₹1.9 crore deal with the Gujarat Giants in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) auction. Her journey to this remarkable achievement is a testament to resilience, determination, and talent.
All you need to know about Simran Shaikh
Simran, the third of eight siblings, grew up in a modest family where her father, Jahid Ali, worked as a wireman, and her mother, Akhtari Bano, was her unwavering support. Despite facing financial struggles and societal norms that discouraged girls from playing sports, Simran’s family stood firmly by her side. Neighbours often questioned her dedication to the sport, advising her parents that she should focus on household chores instead. However, these challenges only fueled Simran’s determination to prove herself.
Her passion for cricket began as a child playing gully cricket in Dharavi. Her father, Jahid, recalls the sacrifices they made to support her dreams, including spending ₹3,000 on her first cricket kit, a considerable sum for the family at the time. Despite the financial strain, her parents always found a way to support her passion.
Simran’s career has seen its share of ups and downs. In the inaugural WPL season, she was bought for ₹10 lakh by UP Warriorz but struggled to make an impact, scoring just 29 runs in nine matches. She went unsold in last year’s auction but bounced back strongly, impressing scouts with her big-hitting skills in the T20 Challenger Trophy earlier in 2024.
Her impressive performances in domestic cricket, particularly her strike rate of 202.50 in the T20 Challenger Trophy, caught the attention of Gujarat Giants’ head coach, Michael Klinger, who praised her for her striking power and fielding skills. Simran’s ability to hit big shots, especially in the middle order, made her a prized catch in the WPL auction.
Simran’s rise in the cricket world is not just a personal victory but a triumph for Dharavi. She hopes her success will inspire other young girls from her neighbourhood to follow their dreams, no matter where they come from. With her new contract, Simran aims to give her best, work hard, and ultimately achieve her dream of playing for India.
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