From the largest slum in Asia, to a player in the big league, it’s been a hard and resilient journey for Simran
By Kamran Khan
Simran made headlines when Gujarat Giants splurged Rs 1.9 crore to acquire her at the WPL 2025 auction, making her the most expensive player for the upcoming cricket season of the Women’s Premier League (WPL).
Earlier that day, Simran received a warm welcome from her family and the local community in Dharavi after her impressive auction success. Speaking to reporters, she expressed her happiness and pride in the achievement. “I am feeling very happy and proud. I have worked hard and I believed in myself. I want to play for India, and I will continue to work hard for it. My family has been a great support,” she said.
Her father, Jahid Ali Shaikh, expressed gratitude for the support Simran received from various people, noting that she has made everyone proud. “I thank everyone for their support. I am feeling very good. She has made us all proud,” he told reporters.
Simran’s mother, Akhtari Bano Shaikh, also expressed immense happiness and pride in her daughter. “I am feeling very good. She received a wonderful welcome from everyone,” she said.
Earlier, in the auction, a fierce bidding battle between Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Giants took place for the uncapped batter. Starting at a base price of Rs 5 lakh, Simran was eventually bought by Gujarat Giants for Rs 1.9 crore.
In an interview with ANI, Simran spoke about her aspirations and admiration for Virat Kohli. “My dream is to meet Virat Kohli. I just want an India jersey, and that’s why I’m putting in all this effort,” she said.
Reflecting on her hard and resilient journey, Simran credited her family’s unwavering support and expressed her responsibility to live up to the trust Gujarat Giants has placed in her. “I thank the GG family. After receiving such a huge amount, it’s now my responsibility to perform for them. I thank my parents, because, in my community, there isn’t much support for women in cricket. However, they have always stood by me.”
In an interview with IANS, Simran’s mother recalled how the family was overjoyed when her name came up at the auction. She said Simran had ignored the criticism and negativity from those who doubted her choice to pursue cricket. “People used to tell me, ‘You should ask her to stop.’ I would try to explain, saying, ‘Don’t do this, people talk badly about us, and it doesn’t feel good. At least think of your mother.’ But she ignored everyone and stayed focused on cricket. Now, everyone speaks highly of her, and we are very proud.”
Simran, the third of seven children, lives with her family of eleven in a cramped 10×16 room in Dharavi, Asia’s largest slum in Mumbai. Her father, Zahid Ali, revealed that he is considering buying a flat to improve their living conditions and provide a better environment for his children.