Simran Shaikh, a 22-year-old cricketer, made headlines when she bagged a Rs 1.9 crore contract with Gujarat Giants in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) auction on Sunday December 15. from Mumbai’s largest slums, under the bright spotlight of the WPL is a testament to resilience, determination and talent.

Coming from a family of modest means, Simran is the third in a family of eight brothers and sisters. His father, Jahid Ali, works as a cableman, while his mother, Akhtari Bano, faithfully supports his dreams. Despite societal norms and financial challenges, the family supported Simran as she played cricket, a sport often inaccessible to girls from underprivileged communities.

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Simran’s father, speaking to India Today, shared his thoughts on his journey: “We have faced many difficulties in our life. With the money that Simran earns, we hope to move to a better house.”

Simran’s early years were far from easy. She faced criticism from neighbors who questioned why a girl was dedicated to sports. Simran stopped her studies after class 10 and focused on her cricket career.

“Our neighbors criticized her, saying, ‘She’s a girl, why is she playing sports? She should concentrate on household chores.’ Today, these same neighbors come to us with smiles and congratulate us. I am so proud of what Simran has achieved in her career,” said her father Jahid.

But his parents believed in his potential. Akhtari Bano remembers giving Simran Rs 3,000 to buy her first cricket kit, a sacrifice for the family at the time.

“I gave her Rs 3,000 for the kit and encouraged her to pursue her passion for sports. It was tough, but we believed in her,” Bano said.

Mohammed Nayab, Simran’s brother, said he hoped Simran would be able to play for India as soon as possible.

“We are all proud of Simran. She will shine this season and one day, God willing, she will represent India,” he said.

Simran has had her ups and downs in her budding career. She was purchased for Rs 10 lakh in the inaugural edition of the WPL by UP Warriorz. However, Simran was unable to get going, managing only 29 points in 9 matches that season.

Simran remained unsold in last year’s auctions. However, Simran caught the attention of scouts with his hard-hitting skills during the recently concluded T20 Challenger Trophy.