The stage is set for the much-anticipated inaugural season of the Uttarakhand Premier League (UPL) as the Player Draft was successfully held yesterday in Dehradun. The draft saw a thrilling selection of icon players for both the men’s and women’s teams, highlighting the immense talent in Uttarakhand cricket. The draft process, which took place in a vibrant atmosphere, has given the teams their full squads, with each franchise securing icon players who have made significant contributions to domestic cricket and beyond.
In the women’s competition, Nainital SG Pipers have secured Ekta Bisht as their icon player and captain. A seasoned international cricketer who created history by becoming the first cricketer from Uttarakhand to represent India, Bisht has represented the nation with distinction, especially in the T20 format. Known for her accurate left-arm spin and experience on the international stage, she will be a key player for the Pipers.
Pithoragarh Hurricane have named Neelam Bisht as their captain and icon player. Neelam has been a consistent performer in domestic cricket, with her all-round abilities providing a strong foundation for the Hurricanes. Her leadership and cricketing experience will be vital in steering the team to success.
Mussoorie Thunders have chosen Mansi Joshi as their icon player and captain. Joshi, who has donned the India jersey, is known for her pace and ability to swing the ball. Her experience in international cricket, combined with her leadership skills, will make her an invaluable asset to the Thunders.
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The draft also saw a mix of emerging and established players, all eager to showcase their talent in the UPL. Each team now boasts a balanced squad, blending youth and experience, setting the stage for a competitive and entertaining tournament.
UPL 2024 – Women’s Squads: Teams, Players List, and More
Nainital SG Pipers: Ekta Bisht (Captain & Icon), Kanchan Parihar, Megha Saini, Sweta Verma, Amisha Bahukhandi, Gunjan Bhandari, Radha Chand, Kanak Tapraniya, Vaishali Tulera, Dipika Chand, Pramila Rawat, Tanya Kanaujiya, Manisha Kunwar, KM Aarti, Priya.
Pithoragarh Hurricanes: Neelam Bisht (Captain & Icon), Raghavi Bisht, Neelam Bharadwaj, Safina, Jyoti Giri, Anjali Kathait, Preeti Bhandari, Muskan Kumari, Karuna Shety, Ankita Shah, Bhoomi Umar, Yashika Baunthiyal, Ananya Mehra, Nandina Kaushik, Ritika Chauhan.
Mussoorie Thunders: Mansi Joshi (Captain & Icon), Sarika Koli, Prema Rawat, Anjali Goswami, Nandini Kashyap, Reena Jindal, Divya Bohra, Shagun Chaudhary, Sakshi Joshi, Gaytri Arya, Nandini Sharma, Rudra Sharma, Neha Mehta, Garima Bisht, Sona Badola.
With the teams now finalized, the excitement for the inaugural season of the Uttarakhand Premier League is palpable. Fans can look forward to high-octane cricket action as these players take the field, aiming to etch their names in the history books of Uttarakhand cricket starting from 15th September at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Dehradun.
(With Inputs from Press Release)