Gunalan Kamalini Out, Mumbai Indians rope in ‘Rising Star’ ahead of knockouts, name is…

Mumbai Indians Women have been dealt a blow in their 2026 WPL campaign, as young wicketkeeper-batter Gunalan Kamalini has been ruled out for the remainder of the season. Details of the injury remain under wraps, but the impact is clear: Kamalini, who featured in five games for MI this season, will now miss the crucial run-in as the franchise eyes a second-straight qualification.

Stepping into the breach is Vaishnavi Sharma, a promising young left-arm spinner. Vaishnavi made her debut in late 2025 but went unsold in the WPL auction ahead of this season. The two-time champions have now snapped her up for INR 30 lakh, hoping her skills can add depth to their spin attack and overall balance.

Vaishnavi isn’t new to pressure situations. She was part of India’s victorious ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup squad in 2025 and has already featured in five T20Is for India, picking up five wickets. Her inclusion gives MI an experienced hand in the bowling department, even as they look to find their rhythm in the middle of the season.

For MI, Kamalini’s absence will be felt, not just for her batting and glovework, but for the energy she brings behind the stumps. However, with Vaishnavi Sharma joining the ranks, the franchise is hopeful of maintaining momentum and staying on course for another strong finish in the league.

The WPL 2026 campaign is heating up, and MI’s fans will be watching closely to see how their new recruit adapts to the high-pressure environment of one of women’s cricket’s biggest stages.