| Born | NA |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Indian |
| Education | NA |
| Occupation | Cricketer (All-rounder) |
| Age | 16 years old |
| Children | NA |
| Parent(s): | NA |
G Kamalini, a 16-year-old Tamil Nadu all-rounder, has quickly risen to prominence in Indian women's cricket. Known for her explosive batting and versatile skills, Kamalini's remarkable talent has not only caught the eye of the cricketing world but also led to her securing a contract with the Mumbai Indians in the 2025 Women's Premier League (WPL) mini auction. With a deal worth an impressive Rs 1.6 crore, Kamalini's future in the game looks incredibly bright.
Early Life and Background
Born and raised in Tamil Nadu, Kamalini’s journey into cricket began at a young age. Growing up, she was inspired by the game and took to cricket with a passion that would later define her career. Starting with local tournaments and school matches, Kamalini honed her skills, quickly establishing herself as a promising talent in the regional circuit. Her natural ability, coupled with her unwavering dedication to the sport, set her on a path that would lead her to national recognition.
Breakthrough in the U-19 Women's T20 Trophy
Kamalini’s breakthrough came in the 2023 U-19 Women’s T20 Trophy, where she emerged as the second-highest run-scorer with a total of 311 runs from eight matches. Her contributions were pivotal in leading Tamil Nadu to victory in the competition. Her powerful and aggressive batting style, particularly her ability to hit big sixes, made her stand out in the tournament. Kamalini smashed 10 sixes, showcasing her exceptional power-hitting skills, a trait that has become one of her trademarks.
Key Performances in the U-19 Women’s T20 Trophy
In addition to her remarkable tally of runs, Kamalini’s individual performances were vital in securing crucial victories for Tamil Nadu. One of her standout innings was during the final, where her consistency with the bat helped her team clinch the title. Her performance not only earned her accolades but also caught the attention of national selectors, setting the stage for her next big challenge: representing India.
Rising Through the Ranks: India U-19 and the Inaugural Asia Cup
Kamalini’s performances at the U-19 Women’s T20 Trophy earned her a call-up to the Indian U-19 squad for the inaugural U-19 Women’s Asia Cup in 2024, held in Malaysia. Her remarkable knock of 79 runs for India 'B' in the U-19 tri-series final against South Africa further solidified her place in the Indian setup. She also played a key role in a memorable run chase against Pakistan, where she scored a blistering 44 off 29 balls in Kuala Lumpur.
These performances proved that Kamalini had the temperament and skill to perform at the highest levels, and she quickly became one of the most talked-about young players in Indian cricket.
A Versatile All-Rounder
What sets Kamalini apart from many of her peers is her versatility on the field. A left-handed batter with an aggressive playing style, she also bowls part-time spin and has taken on wicketkeeping duties in various age-group competitions. This combination of skills makes her a valuable asset for any team, as she can contribute in multiple roles depending on the team’s needs. Her ability to adapt and perform in various aspects of the game adds significant depth to her game, making her a vital all-rounder.
WPL 2025 Auction: A Major Milestone
Kamalini’s inclusion in the Women’s Premier League 2025 mini-auction marked a major milestone in her career. Starting with a modest base price of Rs 10 lakh, Kamalini quickly became one of the hottest properties in the auction. A fierce bidding war broke out between Delhi Capitals (DCW) and Mumbai Indians (MIW), with Mumbai finally securing her services for a massive Rs 1.6 crore. The amount was a testament to her talent and potential, as she became one of the most expensive uncapped players in the auction.
The Importance of the WPL Deal
Being signed by Mumbai Indians not only gave Kamalini a significant financial boost but also provided her with the opportunity to learn from some of the best players in the world. Playing alongside established stars and under the guidance of seasoned coaches will be crucial for her development as a cricketer. The exposure she will gain in the WPL will help her sharpen her skills and gain valuable experience, which will undoubtedly aid her as she progresses in her international career.
Mumbai Indians and the WPL 2025 Auction
In addition to Kamalini’s big signing, Mumbai Indians made several other noteworthy acquisitions during the WPL 2025 mini-auction. Along with Kamalini, the franchise secured South African all-rounder Nadine de Klerk for Rs 30 lakh. De Klerk’s international experience and strong performances in the 2024 WPL for Royal Challengers Bangalore will bolster Mumbai’s squad.
Mumbai also strengthened their batting lineup with the acquisition of West Indies’ big-hitting all-rounder Deandra Dottin, who was signed by Gujarat Giants for Rs 1.7 crore. The franchise also picked up Simran Shaikh, a key player for India in the Senior Women’s T20 Trophy, for Rs 1.9 crore, further emphasizing their commitment to building a strong squad for the season.
Kamalini’s Future in International Cricket
With her selection for the U-19 Women’s World Cup in Malaysia, Kamalini’s journey has only just begun. The tournament will offer her another platform to showcase her skills on the international stage, further boosting her reputation. Given her all-round abilities and potential for growth, Kamalini is expected to make a significant impact not just in the WPL, but also in Indian women’s cricket in the years to come.
Her unique blend of skills, mental toughness, and consistency make her one of the brightest young talents in the game today. As Kamalini continues to evolve as a cricketer, it’s clear that she has a long and successful career ahead of her, and her journey through the ranks of Indian cricket will be one to watch closely.
Ending Words
G Kamalini's rise to prominence in Indian cricket is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and immense talent. From her breakthrough performances in the U-19 Women's T20 Trophy to her high-profile signing with Mumbai Indians in the 2025 WPL, Kamalini has already made her mark on the cricketing world. As she continues to shine on both the domestic and international stages, she is undoubtedly one of the future stars of Indian women’s cricket.
With her combination of explosive batting, versatile all-round skills, and a growing reputation, Kamalini is poised to become a key figure in Indian cricket for years to come. The future looks incredibly bright for this young talent, and the cricketing world eagerly awaits her continued rise to stardom.
