In a thrilling twist at the WPL 2026 auction, Prema Rawat became the centre of attention as bidding wars erupted between the Gujarat Giants (GG) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
Starting at INR 10
lakh, GG opened the bidding for the young all-rounder, but RCB, keen to secure her talent, decided to use their Right to Match (RTM) card. The auction room buzzed with excitement as GG pushed the price to INR 20 lakh, only for RCB to counter with the RTM, successfully securing Rawat for their squad.
Born on November 12, 2001, in the serene town of Bageshwar, Uttarakhand, Prema Rawat is rapidly carving her niche in Indian women's cricket. At just 24 years old, she has already shown glimpses of her potential as a right-handed batter and right-arm leg-break bowler. An all-rounder by nature, Rawat is especially known for her prowess with the ball, which has been her standout strength in domestic cricket.
Rawat represents Uttarakhand in domestic competitions and has also featured in the India A women's cricket team. Her performances have not gone unnoticed; she was the top wicket-taker in the 2023 Senior Women's T20 Trophy, claiming 16 wickets in just 10 matches. This feat not only highlighted her bowling skills but also cemented her reputation as a player who can turn the game around in crucial moments.
In her brief stint in the Women's Premier League so far, Rawat has featured in three matches for RCB. Although her WPL stats are modest, with one wicket from 18 balls bowled, she has demonstrated the temperament and skill to succeed at the highest levels. As a fielder, she has also shown alertness with one catch in her early outings. Fans and pundits alike are keeping a close eye on her growth, expecting her to evolve into a match-winner for RCB.
With her blend of leg-spin and batting potential, Prema Rawat is poised to become one of the most exciting young talents in Indian cricket. Her journey from Bageshwar to the glittering WPL auction room reflects not just talent, but resilience and determination. For cricket enthusiasts, Rawat's rise is a story worth following, promising thrilling performances in the seasons ahead.
