‌RCB ropes in Danny Wyatt-Hodge in successful trade with UP Warriors

The defending champions are the first franchise to initiate a successful trade for the forthcoming WPL edition with Wyatt-Hodge likely to pair with Smriti Mandhana at the top of the order. Despite being the third-most capped international in the Women’s cricket realm, she is yet to feature in a WPL game.

Wyatt-Hodge didn’t attract bids in the inaugural season’s auction after setting her base price to INR 50 Lakhs. The next year, she was roped in by the Warriorz for INR 30 Lakhs. But with prominent figures such as Alyssa Healy, Tahlia McGrath, Grace Harris, Chamari Athapaththu, and Sophie Ecclestone in the ranks, Wyatt-Hodge didn’t get to play any of the matches for the Warriorz.

“Danielle is a game-changer and a phenomenal athlete. Her skills and competitive spirit align perfectly with our team’s vision. We are excited to welcome her to the RCB and look forward to the energy she will bring to the squad,” RCB captain Smriti Mandhana cited.

The 33-year-old has amassed 2979 runs at an average of 22.91 and strike rate of 127.85 with two centuries and 16 half-centuries in T20Is. She was also in marvelous form with the willow for England during the recently concluded Women’s T20 World Cup, mustering 151 runs at an average of 50.33 and strike rate of 124.79.

The WPL mini-auction is likely to be held in December with five teams requiring to submit their retentions next month. The exact date is yet to be announced.