Gujarat Giants (GG) have released just four players, the fewest among teams, ahead of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2027 auction. Among those let go is England opener Danni Wyatt-Hodge, who made history earlier this year as the first woman to surpass the 300-run mark at a T20 World Cup. The team’s head coach, Michael Klinger, cited the team’s overseas player balance and potential scheduling conflicts with England’s international commitments as reasons for the decision.
Despite only appearing once for GG in WPL 2026, Wyatt-Hodge was unable to reclaim her spot after falling ill. Georgia Wareham, an all-rounder who stepped in and performed well, secured her position in the team. “Last year she didn’t quite fit into our four overseas lineup,” Klinger mentioned during a media session. “I actually felt for her… We stuck with that middle-order all-round option for the rest of the tournament.”
The WPL 2027 is slated to run from January 14 to February 7. However, clashes with England’s tour to Sri Lanka and the debut of the women’s Champions Trophy in India could affect scheduling. “England do have commitments during the WPL,” Klinger noted. “I spoke to both her and her agent… they’re keen to be playing some cricket during that time leading into the Champions Trophy.”
Klinger expressed uncertainty over whether Wyatt-Hodge would enter the auction, suggesting both parties sought a solution that allows her to participate with England. This opens new possibilities for GG to explore at the auction.
Turning attention to other squad matters, Klinger referred to retaining Yastika Bhatia as a “no-brainer”, despite her recovery from knee surgery. “I know teams passed on her because she wasn’t available last year. But I just felt… she made runs for India A, made runs in the CPL recently.”
Meanwhile, Bharti Fulmali, who earned an India recall after impressive WPL performances, has yet to translate her domestic successes to international level. Klinger believes this inconsistency stems from her role in the national team not being clearly defined. “Bharti is such a dynamic player,” he said. “We have a role for her that really suits her.”
Klinger, overseeing a GG training camp, confirmed that allrounder Kashvee Gautam is on track to recover from her knee injury. She remains focused on joining India A’s home series against England A. “Kashvee is at the CoE (Centre of Excellence) at the moment… Hopefully everything keeps going in the right way,” Klinger remarked.
Such squad manoeuvres demonstrate GG’s strategic planning ahead of WPL 2027, balancing player management with upcoming international cricketing events.
