Deeya Yadav creates history! Becomes the youngest player ever in WPL history

Deeya Yadav becomes the youngest player to feature in WPL [Image Credits: X]

The Women’s Premier League witnessed a historic moment with the debut of its youngest-ever player, as Deeya Yadav turned out for the Delhi Capitals.

At just 16 years and 103 days, Deeya became the youngest cricketer to feature in a WPL match. She made her debut against the Mumbai Indians at the DY Patil Stadium, replacing star batter Minnu Mani in the Delhi Capitals’ playing XI.

Deeya Yadav tops the list of youngest debutants in WPL history

Deeya Yadav was signed by the Delhi Capitals at her base price of INR 10 lakh during the WPL 2026 auction, following her impressive performances in the domestic under-15 circuit.

A hard-hitting top-order batter known for her clean striking, powerful wrists, and fearless approach, Deeya Yadav, however, did not get the opportunity to bat on debut. Delhi captain Jemimah Rodrigues guided the chase of a 155-run target to completion before Deeya could come to the crease.

Deeya Yadav first shot into the limelight with a remarkable unbeaten 213 in an under-15 match. She now sits atop the list of the youngest debutants in WPL history, surpassing G Kamalini, who made her debut for the Mumbai Indians at 16 years and 213 days during the WPL 2025 season.

Kamalini had held the record after earning her maiden cap on February 18, 2025. The left-handed wicketkeeper-batter is known for her explosive style and justified her selection with several eye-catching performances that season.

Even before Kamalini, players such as Shabnam Shakil, Parshavi Chopra, and Alice Capsey were among the youngest debutants in WPL history.

List of youngest debutants in WPL:

• Deeya Yadav (Delhi Capitals) - 16y 103d
• G Kamalini (Mumbai Indians) - 16y 213d
• Shabnam Shakil (Gujarat Giants) - 16y 263d
• Parshavi Chopra (Mumbai Indians) - 16y 312d
• Alice Capsey (Delhi Capitals) - 18y 205d

Who is Deeya Yadav?

Turning the focus back to Deeya Yadav, her interest in cricket began after watching the Women’s World Cup final in 2017. In 2020, her family relocated to Gurugram to give her better access to the Haryana Cricket Association’s training setup.

In 2023, Deeya gained national attention with a dominant showing in the under-15 one-day trophy, where she smashed 578 runs at an outstanding average of 96.33, including three centuries. This exceptional run brought her into the spotlight, prompting Delhi Capitals scouts to secure her services at the WPL 2026 auction.

How beneficial is Deeya Yadav for Delhi Capitals?

Deeya Yadav’s inclusion in the Delhi Capitals camp is seen as a significant boost. Her fearless mindset, batting depth, and attacking intent complement the existing lineup led by Jemimah Rodrigues.

While handing her maiden cap, Rodrigues highlighted Deeya’s ability to clear the ropes with ease. Deeya is also fluent through the off side and strong off the front foot, making her a more unpredictable batter than a purely leg-side-dominant attacker.

She adds valuable versatility to a squad that already features a packed top order including Shafali Verma, Laura Wolvaardt, and Jemimah Rodrigues.

Deeya’s presence allows flexibility, as she can slot in anywhere within the top order. At just 16 years of age, she represents a long-term investment for the franchise, and with increased exposure, she could become a major asset for the team in future seasons.

Deeya misses her opportunity for the debut

However, in the match against Mumbai Indians, Deeya Yadav was unable to make an impact despite being named in the playing XI, as she did not get a chance to bat.

Mumbai posted 154 runs, built on Nat Sciver-Brunt’s 65 and Harmanpreet Kaur’s 41, but the target was chased down comfortably with one over to spare by Jemimah Rodrigues, with valuable contributions from Lizelle Lee and support from Marizanne Kapp.