IPL 2024: Kavya Maran to Preity Zinta - Women who stood out in the room full of men for the biggest cricket league

The recently concluded mini-auction of the Indian Premier League (IPL), held at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, marked a significant success for the world's premier cricketing league. As all 10 franchises diligently secured players to bolster their squads, a few noteworthy moments emerged from the event.

In a groundbreaking milestone spanning the league's 16-year history, Mallika Sagar made history as the first female auctioneer to wield the gavel, succeeding the likes of Hugh Edmeades. Notably, past IPL auctions had seen Richard Madley, Charu Sharma, and Hugh Edmeades officiate as auctioneers.

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Yet Mallika Sagar was not the sole woman in the room, surrounded by predominantly men, overseeing the auctioning process for players vying to be a part of the world's most prominent cricket league.

Auctioneer - Mallika Sagar:

Creating history, she shattered barriers by presiding over the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) auction in 2021, making her the first female auctioneer in the league's history. Before her role in the IPL, she had overseen auctions for the Women's Premier League (WPL) on two occasions. Throughout the proceedings at the IPL 2024 Auction, she remained in the spotlight, with numerous memes circulating, particularly capturing moments like her issuing a "fair warning" to the franchises.

Punjab Kings Co-owner - Preity Zinta:

Renowned for her Bollywood career, she simultaneously holds the role of co-owner for Punjab Kings (PBKS). Actively participating in auctions and attending her team's matches at diverse venues, she showcased her enthusiasm during the IPL 2024 auction. Seen bidding for players with her infectious smile, a minor blunder occurred when she initially selected the wrong player. However, the confusion was later clarified.

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Sunrisers Hyderabad Owner - Kaviya Maran:

Exemplifying a business-focused mindset, Kaviya Maran, the proprietor of Sunrisers Hyderabad, consistently represents the forefront of the franchise. Directly involved in auction activities, she collaborates closely with the head coach and management. Whenever she participates in auctions or attends her team's matches, she effortlessly captures attention. Her active involvement has cultivated a substantial and dedicated fanbase.

Mumbai Indians (MI) Owner - Nita Ambani:

Nita Ambani, recognized for her enduring smile following successful player acquisitions, is a regular attendee at the IPL auction. Seated beside her son, she ensures that her team secures the finest players. Memes often circulate her, particularly when captured in moments of prayer, expressing her fervent hope for her team's victory.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) Strategist - Jhanvi Mehta:

Emerging as a key figure in the KKR think-tank, she is the latest addition to the auction dynamics. As the daughter of co-owners Jay Mehta and Bollywood actor Juhi Chawla, expectations are high for her to take on auction table responsibilities alongside CEO Venky Mysore and mentor Gautam Gambhir.

The IPL stands as India's most renowned and exhilarating cricket tournament. The anticipated schedule for IPL 2024 is set to commence on March 23, 2024, and conclude on May 29, 2024.