The WPL 2023 season will see bowlers vying for the highly sought-after Purple Cap. Even in T20 cricket, bowlers tend to come out on top, and this season is likely to be no different. Teams like the Mumbai Indians (MI) and the Delhi Capitals (DC) have got off to a flying start thanks to their powerful bowling attacks on batting-friendly surfaces. Furthermore, this tournament gives uncapped and inexperienced Indian bowlers a chance to prove themselves worthy of selection at the highest level. While some have lived up to expectations, there are still others looking to break into the competition. Let’s take a look at three Indian bowlers that could challenge for the Purple Cap in the WPL 2023:
#1 Saika Ishaque (Mumbai Indians)
Saika Ishaque has been the talk of the WPL 2023 since Mumbai Indians’ impressive start, with Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur waxing lyrical about her at the opening fixture against the Gujarat Giants. So far, the left-arm spinner has easily lived up to the hype, having already taken six wickets from two outings for MI and thus firmly established herself as the frontrunner for the Purple Cap amongst Indian players this season.
#2 Deepti Sharma (UP Warriorz)
Deepti has already claimed two wickets in just two matches, and with her team’s success linked directly to her performance, the Warriorz can rest assured knowing she may soon become a frequent contributor. As the tournament continues, the pitches will no doubt become more conducive to spin, and if that’s the case, it is likely Deepti will come into her own, making her a legitimate contender for the coveted Purple Cap.
#3 Renuka Thakur (Royal Challengers Bangalore)
Renuka Thakur had indisputably earned the title of India’s top fast-bowler in women’s cricket and was understandably a hot commodity when WPL 2023 auctions began. She, unfortunately, has been unable to make a mark in their two matches, and RCB has consequently failed to log any points in the standings. They remain confident that Thakur can turn things around in the near future and are banking on her to help bring about a much-needed change for the bowling squad.