Maharani of Vadodara Radhikaraje Gaekwad extends support to Gujarat Giants ahead of WPL home debut; Team captain presents her with special jersey

Ahead of their much-anticipated home debut in the Women’s Premier League (WPL), Gujarat Giants captain Ashleigh Gardner, along with teammates Kashvee Gautam, Phoebe Litchfield, and Deandra Dottin, enjoyed a memorable outing with Maharani of Baroda, Radhikaraje Gaekwad at the iconic Laxmi Vilas Palace.  

Maharani Radhikaraje, a strong advocate for women’s empowerment, extended her support to the team and shared insights on her initiatives and the legacy of Vadodara’s cricket culture.  

The players, joined by Bowling Coach Pravin Tambe and Mr. Sanjay Adesara, Chief Business Officer of Adani Sportsline, also visited Gazra Cafe, an initiative by Shri Maharani Chimnabai Stree Udyogalaya (MCSU).

Also Read: Gujarat Giants unveil jersey for WPL 2025

Founded in 1914 by Maharani Chimnabai II, MCSU focuses on empowering women through education, vocational training, and skill development, particularly in handicrafts and embroidery. The cafe is run by members of the LGBTQ+ community. 

The visit featured an engaging interactive session between the players and Maharani Radhikaraje, who shares a deep-rooted connection with cricket. As a gesture of appreciation, captain Ashleigh Gardner presented her with a special Gujarat Giants jersey. In return, Maharani extended her best wishes to the team ahead of the new season, reaffirming her support to the home team,  women’s cricket and its growing impact in India. 

Also Read: GG Women Team 2025 Player List

Ashleigh Garner named Gujarat Giants skipper 

Meanwhile, the Giants have unveiled Garner as their captain ahead of the 2025 edition. The all-rounder is a two-time Belinda Clark Award winner and she played a significant role in Australia’s 2022 Commonwealth Games gold medal success. She was the Player of the Tournament at the T20 World Cup in South Africa in 2023.

Gardner has been an integral part of the franchise since the league’s inception. Over the last two seasons of WPL, she has scored 324 runs and bagged 17 wickets.