The Adani Sportsline-owned Gujarat Giants have officially announced their player retentions ahead of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 Mega Auction, confirming that Australian stars Ashleigh Gardner and Beth Mooney will continue to lead the franchise’s campaign.
The announcement marks a new chapter for the team as they prepare for an exciting auction later this month with 16 open slots and a clear strategic direction in place. Following a breakthrough 2025 season where the Giants reached the playoffs for the first time, the decision to retain Gardner and Mooney underscores the franchise’s commitment to stability, leadership, and international experience. Both players were pivotal to Gujarat’s resurgence last season Gardner’s all-round prowess and Mooney’s consistency at the top of the order provided the foundation for their spirited playoff run.
The retentions reflect the team’s long-term philosophy of combining fearlessness, humility, and purpose values that have defined their playing identity since joining the WPL.
Adani Sportsline’s Strategic Vision
Speaking about the announcement, Mr. Sanjay Adesara, Chief Business Officer of Adani Sportsline, outlined the franchise’s focus on continuity and forward planning ahead of the first-ever WPL mega auction.
“With the first-ever mega auction for the WPL, we are entering an exciting new phase of women’s cricket,” said Adesara. “Our focus is to keep our competitive core intact while opening opportunities to build further around these two players at the auction. We have a clear vision of the squad we want to build.”
He emphasized that the franchise’s approach goes beyond short-term results, aiming instead to lay the foundation for sustainable success and player development.
“This is an important juncture for the WPL and for Gujarat Giants. Gardner and Mooney bring not just world-class skill but leadership, professionalism, and a winning mentality. We want to create an environment that continues to attract top talent while giving opportunities to emerging Indian players.”
Building on a Promising 2025 Season
The 2025 campaign marked a significant turnaround for the Giants, who combined tactical innovation with grit to make their first playoff appearance. Their performances, led by captain Beth Mooney’s calm batting displays and Ashleigh Gardner’s impactful all-round contributions, earned praise from across the cricketing community. Head Coach Michael Klinger expressed confidence that the retained duo forms the ideal core to build upon in the coming season.
“We played an exciting brand of cricket last season, and while parting ways with some players is always tough, it’s part of the league’s evolution,” said Klinger. “We’ve retained two strong players who reflect our playing ethos competitive, composed, and adaptable. The next step is to bring in fresh energy and depth at the auction to take this team forward.”
Klinger also highlighted the importance of the mega auction as a pivotal opportunity to strengthen the domestic core of the squad. “We’ve seen the league grow rapidly, and it’s heartening to witness how many young Indian players are emerging with every season. The auction will be about finding the right balance maintaining experience while investing in talent that can grow with the team.”
WPL 2026 Mega Auction: Why Big Stars Were Released The Strategy Behind the Non-Retentions
The Gujarat Giants’ leadership has maintained that the franchise’s long-term objective is to build a team that embodies consistency and growth, capable of challenging for the title season after season. Retaining Gardner and Mooney both natural leaders and world champions reflects that vision.
While Gardner has been one of the league’s most impactful all-rounders, known for her power-hitting and wicket-taking ability, Mooney’s reliability at the top adds a layer of calm and control. Together, they provide the Giants with a blend of stability and aggression the kind of balance that modern T20 sides thrive on. With 16 available slots heading into the WPL 2026 Mega Auction, Gujarat Giants are expected to make strategic signings that complement their existing core. The team’s management, led by Adani Sportsline, is likely to prioritize young domestic talent and multi-skilled players who can fit seamlessly into their tactical framework.
Adani Sportsline: Driving Sports Excellence in India
Founded in 2019, Adani Sportsline is the sports arm of the diversified Adani Group, which has interests across energy, infrastructure, logistics, ports, airports, and food processing. The company’s vision extends beyond professional franchises, focusing on grassroots development and creating pathways for India’s future champions. In alignment with the Adani Group’s nation-building philosophy, Adani Sportsline is committed to building a world-class sports ecosystem one that nurtures talent, drives inclusivity, and positions India as a leading global sporting nation.
“Our aim has always been to create opportunities and an environment where athletes can thrive,” added Adesara. “Through the WPL and our investment in the Gujarat Giants, we hope to continue inspiring young women across India to pursue their dreams in cricket.”
As Gujarat Giants prepare for the WPL 2026 Mega Auction, the message from the leadership is clear: a vision rooted in clarity, competitiveness, and continuity. With Ashleigh Gardner and Beth Mooney at the heart of their plans, and a refreshed approach to team-building, the franchise is ready to take its next big stride from playoff contenders to championship challengers.
