In a high-voltage Women’s Premier League (WPL) mega auction filled with big names and star power, it was a 16-year-old who stole the show. Deeya Yadav, a prodigious top-order batter known for her fearless strokeplay, became the youngest player ever to be bought at the WPL auction. Snapped up by Delhi Capitals at her base price of ₹10 lakh, Deeya’s selection was less about the money and more about the moment—one that marks the beginning of a remarkable cricketing journey on the national stage.

What makes her rise even more special is that this acquisition reunites her with her role model and India’s explosive opener, Shafali Verma. Having already shared the dressing room with Shafali while representing Haryana, Deeya will now get the chance to learn directly from one of the most fearsome batters in world cricket.

A Message From Her Idol

The connection between the two cricketers extends beyond shared matches. Moments after Deeya’s name was announced, Shafali took to Instagram, celebrating the young star in her trademark straightforward style:
“Congratulations, Diya, welcome to Delhi Capitals.”

For Deeya, who has watched Shafali break bowling attacks with audacity and flair, the reunion is more than nostalgic—it’s fuel for the journey ahead. Three years of playing together at the state level have already shaped her approach to the game, with Shafali’s aggression clearly rubbing off on the teenager.

Why Delhi Capitals Wanted Her

Delhi Capitals CEO Sunil Gupta shed light on why the franchise prioritized securing the young batter. The scouting team had been tracking Deeya since she first made waves in U-15 tournaments. Her performances this year sealed the deal.

According to Gupta, “She has taken her transition from age-group to senior cricket like fish to water. Her range of shots, ball-striking ability, and fearless approach are what impressed our scouts.”

Her stellar run in the Senior Women’s T20 Trophy, where she ended as Haryana’s second-highest scorer, combined with a strong showing in the Inter Zonal T20 tournament, proved that she wasn’t just another young prospect. She was ready.

Roots in Pune, Rise in North India

Deeya’s cricketing journey began in Pune, where she followed her father, himself a former Delhi Under-19 player, to the field as a six-year-old. Those early days, filled with raw passion and childhood curiosity, have now transformed into a disciplined pursuit of excellence.

Her move through age-group cricket, her leap into senior-level matches, and now her selection at the WPL auction form a trajectory defined by grit, guidance, and extraordinary talent.

As the WPL continues to elevate women’s cricket in India, stories like Deeya Yadav’s add freshness, hope, and excitement to the narrative. A teenager with nerves of steel and the bat speed to match, she represents the new generation—brave, ambitious, and unafraid to take on the world.

The Delhi Capitals camp has bet on her promise. Shafali Verma has already offered her stamp of approval. Now, it’s time for Deeya to step onto the WPL stage and show fans exactly why she’s being called one of the brightest young talents in Indian cricket.