Ahilya Chandel becomes First Japanese Player in WPL, Joins DC

Ahilya Chandel: The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 is set to witness a historic moment as Delhi Capitals have roped in Ahilya Chandel, making her the first-ever Japanese player in the league. The young pacer has been signed as a net bowler, adding an exciting international flavor to the tournament.

Ahilya Chandel: Delhi Capitals’ New Pick, First Japanese in WPL

Who is Ahilya Chandel?

Ahilya Chandel, born on January 10, 2003, has a unique cricketing journey. With an Indian father and a Japanese mother, she developed an early love for cricket. Encouraged by her father’s passion for the sport, she started playing at the age of eight and has since carved a name for herself in international cricket.

Chandel’s Journey in International Cricket

Ahilya made her debut for the Japan national team in October 2022 against Hong Kong during the Women’s East Asia Cup. She has been Japan’s most successful bowler in Women’s T20 Internationals (WT20Is), taking 30 wickets in 32 matches at an impressive economy rate of 4.58.

One of her standout performances came against China in the 2024 Asian Cricket Council Women’s Premier Cup, where she delivered a match-winning spell of 4/8. This earned her the prestigious Player of the Match award and secured Japan’s victory by four wickets.

A Historic Feat: Double Hat-Trick in T20Is

Ahilya Chandel is one of only four bowlers in WT20Is to have taken a double hat-trick—four wickets in four consecutive deliveries. This rare feat places her among an elite group of cricketers, showcasing her ability to deliver under pressure.

Ahilya Chandel Joins Delhi Capitals

Delhi Capitals have signed Ahilya Chandel as a net bowler for WPL 2025. While her role does not guarantee a spot in the playing XI, history suggests that net bowlers often transition into key squad members. Past examples include Umran Malik and Mukesh Kumar, who started as net bowlers before making a name in professional cricket.

The move is not only a significant milestone for Chandel but also a breakthrough moment for Japanese cricket. Training alongside top international stars like Jemimah Rodrigues, Meg Lanning, and Shafali Verma will be an invaluable experience for her development.

Delhi Capitals’ Coach Impressed by Chandel

Delhi Capitals’ head coach Jonathan Betty has lauded Chandel’s work ethic and potential. He described her as a “real bundle of energy and joy” and expressed confidence in her ability to learn and adapt quickly. With her diverse cricketing experience in Japan and Australia, she brings a fresh perspective to the squad.

What This Means for the Future of Japanese Cricket

Ahilya Chandel’s inclusion in the WPL is a massive boost for cricket in Japan. It highlights the growing global reach of the sport and could inspire more young talents from associate nations to take up cricket. If she impresses in the nets and gets an opportunity to play, she could become the first Japanese cricketer to feature in a major global T20 league.

Ahilya Chandel’s journey from Japan to the Women’s Premier League is an inspiring story of passion, perseverance, and breaking barriers. Whether she gets a playing opportunity or not, her presence in the Delhi Capitals squad is a monumental step for Japanese cricket. With her talent and determination, the future looks bright for this young pacer.

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