The Gujarat Giants (GG) have struggled in the Women’s Premier League (WPL), finishing last in both the 2023 and 2024 seasons. A combination of injuries, inconsistent performances, and backroom changes has kept them from reaching their potential. However, WPL 2025 brings fresh opportunities, with the team undergoing major restructuring.
With a new captain in Ashleigh Gardner, a redefined squad, and home support for the first time at Vadodara’s Kotambi Stadium, the Giants are desperate for a turnaround. Head coach Michael Klinger remains in charge, but the franchise has opted for a new approach by revamping its coaching setup and player core.
While their spin attack remains their strongest asset, Gujarat will need to find answers for their weak pace department if they hope to challenge the league’s best teams.
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Auction Strategy: Making a Statement
Gujarat Giants entered the WPL 2025 auction with intent, making Deandra Dottin their headline signing for INR 1.7 crore. The power-hitter from the Caribbean had been controversially omitted from their squad in the inaugural season, leading to a public fallout. Now, with a new leadership group in place, Dottin is back in orange and eager to make up for lost time.
Another major signing was Simran Shaikh, the most expensive uncapped player in the auction, picked up for INR 1.9 crore after an intense bidding war with Delhi Capitals. The Giants also strengthened their bowling options by securing England’s Danielle Gibson and Mumbai’s Prakashika Naik at their base price.
With these signings, Gujarat has built a more balanced squad, adding firepower in the middle order while bolstering their bowling unit.
Leadership Overhaul: Gardner Takes the Helm
Off the field, Gujarat Giants have made some bold coaching and leadership changes. While Michael Klinger retains his role as head coach, the franchise has parted ways with key support staff, including Mithali Raj (mentor) and Nooshin Al Khadeer (assistant coach).
The most significant change comes in captaincy, with Ashleigh Gardner replacing Beth Mooney. Gardner, one of the world’s premier all-rounders, is known for her aggressive leadership and match-winning ability. Having played a crucial role in Australia’s dominance in world cricket, she now has the challenge of leading Gujarat Giants to their first successful WPL campaign.
Key Player to Watch: Deandra Dottin
All eyes will be on Deandra Dottin, who finally gets her WPL debut after missing the first two seasons. The Caribbean all-rounder comes into the tournament in red-hot form, having played a pivotal role in West Indies’ T20 World Cup campaign.
She was named Player of the Series in the T20I series against Bangladesh, scoring 110 runs at an astonishing strike rate of 203.70. Now, she is expected to play a crucial middle-order role for Gujarat Giants, bringing both stability and explosiveness.
With her experience, power-hitting, and ability to contribute with the ball, Dottin could be the game-changer Gujarat desperately needs.
Gujarat Giants Predicted XI for WPL 2025
- Laura Wolvaardt
- Beth Mooney (wk)
- Harleen Deol
- Deandra Dottin
- D Hemalatha
- Ashleigh Gardner (C)
- Simran Shaikh
- Meghana Singh
- Sayali Satghare/Kashvee Gautam
- Tanuja Kanwar
- Priya Mishra
Home Advantage and Tough Fixtures
For the first time in WPL history, Gujarat Giants will play in front of their home crowd at Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara. Their season opener on February 14 is a blockbuster clash against the defending champions.
They play two more home games against UP Warriorz and Mumbai Indians in the first five days, making their start crucial for playoff ambitions. Post that, GG embarks on a challenging away stretch with games in Bengaluru, Lucknow, and Mumbai before wrapping up their league stage on March 10.
Can Gujarat Giants Finally Deliver?
With a revamped leadership team, marquee signings, and an eager home crowd, Gujarat Giants have all the ingredients to finally break their playoff drought. However, their fortunes will depend on how well they manage their bowling limitations and batting inconsistencies.
Can Ashleigh Gardner lead Gujarat Giants to their first WPL playoff appearance? WPL 2025 will provide the answers.
FAQs
Who is the new captain of Gujarat Giants for WPL 2025?
Ashleigh Gardner has been appointed as the new captain, replacing Beth Mooney.
Which star player has Gujarat Giants signed for WPL 2025?
Gujarat Giants have signed Deandra Dottin for INR 1.7 crore, marking her much-awaited WPL debut.
Where will Gujarat Giants play their home matches in WPL 2025?
For the first time, Gujarat Giants will play at Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara.
What is Gujarat Giants’ biggest strength in WPL 2025?
Their world-class spin attack, featuring Ashleigh Gardner, Tanuja Kanwar, and Priya Mishra, is a key strength.
Can Gujarat Giants qualify for the WPL 2025 playoffs?
With a revamped squad, a new leader, and home support, GG have a strong chance of making their first playoff appearance.
