New Delhi, October 24, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Former India cricketer Reema Malhotra has urged Mumbai Indians to make a strong bid for wicketkeeper-batter Sushma Verma at the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2027 auction, identifying her as a potential solution to the franchise’s opening and wicketkeeping concerns.
Mumbai Indians, who failed to reach the playoffs in the 2026 season, have retained 11 players under captain Harmanpreet Kaur. With an auction purse of Rs 1 crore, the franchise will look to address key gaps at the auction scheduled for October 28 in Kochi.
Speaking to Jio Star, Malhotra highlighted the team’s frequent changes to its opening combination last season and the departure of G Kamalini, who had also provided wicketkeeping options. She also pointed to the release of spinner Saika Ishaque as a reason for Mumbai to strengthen their spin department alongside Vaishnavi Sharma.
Malhotra backed Sushma Verma, citing her domestic performances and showing in the Women’s Caribbean Premier League. She also noted that Verma had been called for trials by the Mumbai Indians management.
The former cricketer expects Mumbai to continue supporting all-rounder Amanjot Kaur, who is recovering from a back injury at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. She described Amanjot as a valuable three-dimensional player whose contribution over the previous two seasons makes her difficult to replace.
Malhotra also identified Shweta Sehrawat, released by UP Warriorz, as a potential target. She said Mumbai could consider her as an Indian batting option, particularly if the franchise seeks a more dynamic finisher alongside Sajeevan Sajana.
Mumbai have already strengthened their pace attack by trading left-arm pacer Tara Norris from UP Warriorz at her existing fee of Rs 10 lakh. However, Malhotra believes the franchise should also pursue an Indian fast bowler who can provide cover if Norris is injured or struggles to take wickets.
A young Indian pacer capable of bowling in both the powerplay and at the death, she said, would add depth to Mumbai’s bowling resources.
The WPL 2027 season is scheduled to run from January 14 to February 7.
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