A week ago, IT professionals Pinky and Rakesh Yadav experienced a nerve-racking evening as they awaited the Women’s Premier League (WPL) auction. At home, Pinky was anxious while Rakesh was on his commute from the office, just 18 kilometres away. Their 16-year-old daughter Deeya, in Kerala with Haryana’s U23 squad for T20 games, was about to be called out in the auction.

Nervousness peaked when auctioneer Mallika Sagar announced Deeya’s name. The room fell silent for 10-15 seconds before Delhi Capitals, who had been closely monitoring the teenager, raised their paddle and acquired her at the base price of Rs 10 lakh.

Rakesh, recalling the moment, said, “When DC finally raised the paddle, I felt immense relief. It was our first experience with an auction, so it was both amazing and nerve-

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