Prema Rawat, an uncapped all-rounder, has recently made headlines in the cricketing world after being acquired by the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for ₹1.2 crores during the Women’s Premier League (WPL) mini-auction.
This significant purchase reflects RCB’s strategic focus on building a robust team as they aim to defend their championship title.
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Who is Prema Rawat?
Prema Rawat is a talented cricketer hailing from Uttarakhand, India. At just 23 years old, she has already made a notable impact in domestic cricket.
Her performance in the inaugural Uttarakhand Premier League was impressive, where she played a crucial role in leading Mussoorie Thunders to victory by taking four wickets in three matches.
This success drew attention from various franchises during the WPL auction, culminating in a bidding war primarily between RCB and Delhi Capitals.
Key Stats and Achievements
| Category | Details |
| Age | 23 years |
| Hometown | Uttarakhand, India |
| WPL Auction Price | ₹1.2 crores |
| Previous Team | Mussoorie Thunders |
| WPL Performance | 4 wickets in 3 matches |
The WPL 2024 Auction: A Turning Point
During the WPL 2024 auction held on December 15, 2024, RCB’s decision to invest heavily in Prema Rawat highlights its commitment to nurturing young talent and enhancing its squad depth. The auction saw intense competition for her services, with RCB ultimately securing her after a fierce bidding war against Delhi Capitals.
This acquisition not only adds depth to RCB’s bowling attack but also showcases its strategy of blending experienced players with emerging talents.
Bidding War Highlights
- Teams Involved: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs. Delhi Capitals
- Final Price: ₹1.2 crores
- Other Notable Purchases: N Charani was sold to Delhi Capitals for ₹55 lakhs.
RCB’s Strategy Moving Forward
Royal Challengers Bengaluru‘s purchase of Prema Rawat is part of a broader strategy to build a competitive team for the upcoming WPL season. The franchise retained several key players while also making strategic buys during the auction.
Their focus on young talent like Rawat indicates a long-term vision for sustained success in women’s cricket.
Retained Players Overview
| Player Name | Role |
| Smriti Mandhana | Captain / Batter |
| Ellyse Perry | All-rounder |
| Richa Ghosh | Wicketkeeper / Batter |
Conclusion
Prema Rawat’s acquisition by RCB marks an exciting chapter for both the player and the franchise. With her proven track record at the domestic level and her growth potential, she is poised to become a significant contributor to RCB’s success in future seasons. As the WPL continues to gain popularity, players like Rawat will play an essential role in elevating women’s cricket in India.
In summary, Prema Rawat is not just a promising talent but also a symbol of RCB’s commitment to building a strong and dynamic team for the future of women’s cricket. With her skills and determination, she is expected to make a substantial impact in the upcoming WPL season.
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