Mumbai Indians Hit by Injury in WPL 2026; Vaishnavi Sharma Replaces G Kamalini
Mumbai Indians have been forced into a mid-season squad change in WPL 2026, with wicketkeeper-batter G Kamalini ruled out for the remainder of the tournament due to injury. The defending champions have named Vaishnavi Sharma as her replacement, with the left-arm spinner making her WPL debut against Delhi Capitals in Vadodara.
Kamalini’s Injury Forces Squad Reshuffle
G Kamalini had featured in all five matches for Mumbai Indians this season before being sidelined by injury. While MI have not disclosed the nature or extent of the issue, it has been confirmed that she will take no further part in WPL 2026.
Although her returns with the bat were modest—75 runs off 77 balls—Kamalini played an important role in MI’s team balance. As the primary wicketkeeper, she effected seven dismissals behind the stumps, contributing significantly in the field even when runs were hard to come by.
Vaishnavi Sharma Gets WPL Opportunity
The injury setback for Kamalini has opened the door for Vaishnavi Sharma, who now makes her maiden WPL appearance for Mumbai Indians. A left-arm spinner, Vaishnavi brings a very different skill set to the XI compared to Kamalini, indicating a tactical shift rather than a like-for-like replacement.
Vaishnavi recently made her international debut for India in the T20I series against Sri Lanka, featuring in matches at Visakhapatnam and Thiruvananthapuram. She impressed at that level, finishing the series with five wickets at an economy rate of 6.26, showcasing both control and attacking intent.
Despite those performances, Vaishnavi went unsold at the WPL auction in November. Her mid-tournament signing by MI for INR 30 lakh represents a significant turnaround and a major opportunity to establish herself on the franchise stage.
Auction Contrast Highlights Opportunity
The contrast between the two players’ auction journeys is stark. Kamalini was acquired by MI for INR 1.60 crore, having entered the auction with a base price of INR 10 lakh, underlining the franchise’s initial faith in her potential as a wicketkeeper-batter.
Vaishnavi, meanwhile, joins at a fraction of that price but now has a chance to prove her value under pressure, in a team with high expectations and a proven winning culture.
Impact on Mumbai Indians’ Campaign
Mumbai Indians remain one of the most successful teams in WPL history, having won the title twice. At present, they are placed second on the points table, with two wins from three matches, and firmly in contention for another deep run in the tournament.
The loss of Kamalini does remove a layer of stability behind the stumps, but Vaishnavi’s inclusion could strengthen MI’s bowling options, especially on surfaces that offer assistance to spin. Her ability to contain runs in the middle overs may become a valuable asset as the league stage progresses.
Bigger Picture for Indian Women’s Cricket
Vaishnavi Sharma’s debut underlines the depth and unpredictability of opportunities in the WPL. Replacement signings have increasingly become launchpads for young Indian players, and strong performances can quickly change career trajectories.
With national selectors closely monitoring the tournament, Vaishnavi will be keen to build on her recent international success and convert this unexpected opportunity into a long-term breakthrough.
Conclusion
G Kamalini’s injury is a setback for Mumbai Indians, particularly in terms of wicketkeeping depth, but it has opened the door for Vaishnavi Sharma to step onto one of the biggest stages in women’s cricket. As MI continue their WPL 2026 campaign, all eyes will be on how the debutant adapts—and whether she can make a lasting impact for the defending champions.
Written By The Cricket Show:
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