Her availability at that time would have been a game-changer, meeting a key strategic need for franchises: securing a truly world-class Indian fast bowler capable of consistently bowling above 120 kmph. Goswami’s reputation, peak fitness and legacy as the only Indian woman to win the ICC Player of the Year award at the time would have increased her value well beyond typical domestic salary projections. She would have been the most sought after signing, not only guaranteeing instant wickets but also establishing a fundamental pace bowling culture for any franchise.
WPL auction dynamics for world’s best Indian pacer Jhulan Goswami
As the undisputed spearhead of the Indian attack, Goswami’s price would not have been limited to the domestic salary cap, but rather compared to the league’s highest-paid foreign stars. If offered at the maximum base price, she would have quickly breached domestic salary caps.
Considering that international stars like it Nat Sciver-Brunt And Ashleigh Gardner raised ₹3.2 crore, and top Indian players like it Harmanpreet Kaur would have gone for a maximum of ₹2.5 crore, Goswami’s bid would have realistically remained between ₹3.0 crore and ₹3.8 crore. She would have undoubtedly become the highest-paid Indian player at the inaugural WPL auction, reflecting both her undeniable impact on T20 cricket (with a best T20I bowling figure of 5/11 against Australia in 2012) and her enormous, enduring brand power. Franchises that missed her, or her legendary contemporary Mithali Rajwould have been at a tactical disadvantage from the start of the competition.
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Jhulan Goswami’s impact on the field: The undisputed spearhead and leader
The franchise that Goswami secured would have immediately acquired the most influential player in the league and developed into a title contender. As the only active Indian fast bowler of her caliber, she would have been the undisputed leader on the field, playing every match and taking responsibility for bowling the key new ball and death overs. Her exceptional ability to generate bounce from her 6-foot-4 frame would have made her a constant threat on any court.
But her influence would not have been limited to her bowling. A veteran of two decades in international cricket, she would also have served as tactical captain of the bowling unit, using her experience to set pitches, mentor younger pacers and provide invaluable strategic insights. Her presence alone would have set the standard of professionalism, established a performance benchmark for all teams and given her franchise the key competitive advantage in the inaugural WPL season.
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This article was first published on WomenCricket.coma Cricket Times company.
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