Last Updated: January 7, 2026 01:47 PM
Kanika Ahuja switches franchises for the WPL 2026 season after three years. The 23-year-old all-rounder from Patiala moves to a new environment. Royal Challengers Bangalore decided to release her before the recent auction.
She started her WPL journey back in 2023 with decent expectations. RCB retained her for 2024 and 2025 at consistent amounts. But she needed a fresh start somewhere else this time.
Her WPL Price Details
Gujarat Giants grabbed Kanika Ahuja for Rs 30 lakh at the auction. Her base amount was also set at Rs 30 lakh exactly. The WPL cost remained at the minimum bid throughout the entire bidding process.
RCB originally bought her for Rs 35 lakh in the 2023 auction. That money dropped slightly when Gujarat signed her for 2026 now. The salary reflects her limited match opportunities at the previous franchise.
Starting fresh at the base price gives her chances without huge pressure. The salary might increase if she gets regular playing time here. Kanika Ahuja’s all-round skills justify investment from any franchise looking ahead.
Gujarat Giants WPL Team Addition
Kanika Ahuja joins the Gujarat Giants WPL team as an all-rounder option. The squad needed depth in both the batting and bowling departments desperately. Her left-handed batting and off-spin bowling add flexibility to strategies.
She debuted in WPL on March 5, 2023 against the Delhi Capitals. She didn’t score runs or take wickets in that match unfortunately. The WPL team hopes she gets more opportunities to showcase her abilities.
Gujarat Giants invested in her potential rather than her established WPL record. The team values players hungry to prove themselves after limited chances. Her domestic performances suggest she can deliver when given a proper platform.
Domestic Cricket Success
Kanika Ahuja started playing state cricket for Punjab in 2021. She grabbed 5 wickets against Mumbai in the One-Day Trophy. Her batting also shines with 90 runs off 88 balls against Rajasthan.
Kamal Sandhu coached her bowling techniques during her developmental years back then. She specialises in short formats where her skills shine brightest. The next season gives her a chance to establish herself properly.
