Outlook: To say Gujarat Giants have underperformed in seasons one and two would be soft-pedalling their issues. From controversies to injuries, Giants have had a forgettable two years so far and would be looking to get third-time lucky as they bid for the playoffs spot with a refurbished leadership group overseen by head coach Michael Klinger. With a strong Australian core at its heart, the GG side doesn't lack firepower but the rawness of its domestic contingent has often let them down. That said, three of the Giants' players have gone on to make their India white-ball debut between the two editions, while Harleen Deol - who had her season cut short last year due to an ACL injury - has made a successful comeback with a maiden ODI century to boot. The inexperience of their pace-bowling unit may be a glaring weakness that Giants would be hoping to mask with its potent and varied spin attack, to be led by their new captain Ashleigh Gardner.
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Through Gardner, Gujarat aim to go where they have never been
Ashleigh Gardener has arguably been the Giants' best player over the last two editions © Sportzpics
Where they finished in WPL 2024: Bottom of the table, for the second successive season.
Auction round-up: After an intense bidding war with UP Warriorz, Giants secured destructive Caribbean allrounder Deandra Dottin's signature for INR 1.7 crore. They also went head-to-head with Delhi Capitals to sign Simran Shaikh at INR 1.9 crore making her the costliest uncapped player at the mini auction. They rounded off the auction with two base-price buys - England bowling all-rounder Danielle Gibson and Mumbai leggie Prakashika Naik.
Newsmaker(s): The Giants have stayed in the news for big shake-ups, including the overhaul of their back-room staff. Klinger stays, but the Giants have
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