The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2027 mini-auction is fast approaching, with Kochi set to host the event on October 28. With limited slots available across the five franchises, teams will need to make smart decisions to strengthen their squads. Sri Lankan all-rounder Chamari Athapaththu is among the notable players who could attract attention after registering for the auction at a base price of INR 30 lakh.
Athapaththu offers a valuable combination of aggressive top-order batting and experienced off-spin bowling. Her ability to provide quick starts and contribute with the ball makes her an appealing option for franchises looking to improve their overseas combinations. With teams assessing their squad requirements ahead of the new season, the experienced Sri Lankan captain could emerge as an attractive target. Let’s have a look at three franchises that could target Athapaththu at the WPL 2027 mini-auction.
3 teams that can target Chamari Athapaththu in WPL 2027 mini-auction
1. Gujarat Giants
Gujarat Giants could consider Athapaththu as they look to strengthen their top-order batting and improve their overall squad balance. The franchise has a potential opening in its overseas batting options following the release of Danni Wyatt-Hodge, creating an opportunity to bring in an experienced international player who can make an impact from the start of an innings.
Athapaththu’s aggressive approach could help the Giants get off to faster starts in the powerplay. Her ability to bat at the top of the order would also give the team flexibility when deciding its opening combination. She could complement captain Beth Mooney by providing an attacking option who can put opposition bowlers under pressure.
Her off-spin would further increase her value to the franchise. The ability to contribute overs in the middle phase could give Gujarat greater flexibility when managing its bowling resources. If the Giants prioritise a proven all-rounder who can address more than one squad requirement, Athapaththu could be a strong option.
2. Royal Challengers Bengaluru
Royal Challengers Bengaluru could also enter the race for Athapaththu as they look to add another experienced overseas player to their squad. The Sri Lankan captain’s ability to influence matches with both bat and ball would make her a potentially useful addition to a side built around established international performers.
Athapaththu could provide an aggressive opening option alongside Smriti Mandhana or strengthen the top three, depending on RCB’s preferred combination. Her left-handed batting would also offer variety at the top of the order, while her power-hitting could help the franchise maximise scoring opportunities during the powerplay.
Beyond her batting, Athapaththu’s off-spin would give RCB another option to use during the middle overs. Her international experience and leadership background could also prove useful in pressure situations. If RCB decide to prioritise a high-impact overseas all-rounder at the auction, the Sri Lankan could be among the players they consider.
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3. UP Warriorz
UP Warriorz could be another strong contender for Athapaththu, having previously had her in their squad. The franchise is reportedly entering the mini-auction with a remaining purse of INR 3.75 crore, giving it considerable financial flexibility to compete for players who fit its requirements.
Athapaththu’s familiarity with the Warriorz setup could make a potential reunion an appealing option. The team management would already have experience assessing her role and could look to use her as an aggressive top-order batter who can also contribute with the ball. Her ability to move around the top four would provide flexibility when adjusting the batting order to different match situations.
The Warriorz could also benefit from adding an experienced international captain to their group. Athapaththu’s all-round ability would help address more than one squad requirement, while the franchise’s reported purse could give it room to compete with rival bidders. If UP Warriorz decide to bring her back, she could offer both familiarity and a proven match-winning skill set.
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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
