Simran Shaikh’s Dream of Meeting Virat Kohli After WPL Mega Deal

After getting a big deal in the WPL, Simran Shaikh, a 22-year-old cricketer from Dharavi, has set her sights on representing India. Securing a Rs 1.9 crore deal with Gujarat Giants, Simran dreams of wearing the Indian jersey and playing for her country. Raised in a humble family, with her father working as a wireman and mother providing unwavering support, Simran’s journey in cricket was full of challenges.

Despite societal norms discouraging girls from playing sports, she pursued her passion, facing taunts from neighbors who questioned her commitment. Simran’s resilience, supported by her parents—especially her mother, who once sacrificed Rs 3,000 to buy her a cricket kit—has led to her breakthrough. She said:

My journey has started now. I want to give my best and work hard. I want one more jersey, which is the India jersey. I will work hard to achieve that dream. I like Virat Kohli a lot. My dream is to meet him. When I used to play gully cricket as a kid, my neighbors kept saying, “Why is a girl playing with boys? Go home and work.” They taunted my mom and dad, saying I should learn to wash utensils and other household chores.

After struggling in her first WPL season with UP Warriorz, Simran’s comeback in 2024, where she impressed with her big-hitting skills, earned her a spot in the auction. Now, she aims to meet her idol, Virat Kohli, while striving to achieve her ultimate dream.