Gujarat Giants make statement signing, snatch Deandra Dottin for Rs 1.7 Crore at WPL auction
Key Points(5)
- The acquisition marks a triumphant return for the hard-hitting all-rounder and underlines her enduring star power in the shortest format of the game.
- <b>Gujarat Giants secure top talent</b> The 33-year-old Dottin emerged as one of the most prized picks of the auction, only narrowly eclipsed by the Giants’ hefty <strong>Rs 1.9 crore</strong> investment in uncapped domestic batter <strong>Simran Shaikh</strong>.
- Meanwhile, young Indian Under-19 wicketkeeper-batter <strong>G Kamalini</strong> found herself in the spotlight, heading to <strong>Mumbai Indians</strong> for a lucrative <strong>Rs 1.6 crore</strong> deal.
- The auction opened on a dramatic note with Dottin’s name first to be called, instantly setting the tone for an afternoon of intense bidding.
- For Dottin, the moment symbolized a powerful redemption arc following her controversial history with the Giants.
BENGALURU, India — In a dazzling show of confidence, West Indies power-hitter Deandra Dottin was snapped up by the Gujarat Giants for a staggering Rs 1.7 crore at the 2025 Women’s Premier League (WPL) auction on Monday.
The acquisition marks a triumphant return for the hard-hitting all-rounder and underlines her enduring star power in the shortest format of the game.
Gujarat Giants secure top talent
The 33-year-old Dottin emerged as one of the most prized picks of the auction, only narrowly eclipsed by the Giants’ hefty Rs 1.9 crore investment in uncapped domestic batter Simran Shaikh. Meanwhile, young Indian Under-19 wicketkeeper-batter G Kamalini found herself in the spotlight, heading to Mumbai Indians for a lucrative Rs 1.6 crore deal.
The auction opened on a dramatic note with Dottin’s name first to be called, instantly setting the tone for an afternoon of intense bidding. For Dottin, the moment symbolized a powerful redemption arc following her controversial history with the Giants.
Redemption for Dottin after 2023 controversy
This isn’t the first time Dottin’s name has been associated with the Gujarat Giants. In the inaugural WPL season of 2023, she was signed by the franchise amid much fanfare but, in an unexpected and controversial twist, was released just days before the tournament began. Her removal stirred debate across cricketing circles, leaving fans and pundits puzzled.
Now, with the franchise investing heavily to reclaim her, the West Indian stalwart’s return feels like poetic justice.
Dottin’s reputation as a record-breaker remains firmly intact. Known for her brutal hitting and versatile all-round skills, she made history as the first woman to score a century in T20 Internationals. Her unforgettable 38-ball century against South Africa during the 2010 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup continues to stand as the fastest hundred in women’s T20 cricket, a feat that has earned her global recognition.
As one of the sport’s most formidable players, Dottin’s experience and dynamism make her a potent addition to the Gujarat Giants line-up.
Gujarat Giants build for blockbuster season
The Giants’ bold spending signals their intent to dominate the 2025 WPL season. The acquisitions of Dottin and Shaikh promise to inject explosive firepower and depth into their squad, while other franchises, including the Mumbai Indians, made significant strides in bolstering their rosters with rising stars like Kamalini.
For Dottin, this high-profile signing not only marks a return to the league but also solidifies her status as one of the most sought-after players in women’s cricket. Fans of the Gujarat Giants will no doubt be eagerly anticipating the West Indian’s return to the crease, where her signature six-hitting prowess will be on full display.
