Minnu Mani

Minnu Mani is a historic figure in Indian cricket, famously becoming the first woman from Kerala to represent the national team. Born on March 24, 1999, in the rural Choyimoola area of Wayanad, her journey is a testament to extraordinary resilience; she famously traveled three hours and switched four buses daily just to reach her training grounds. A talented off-spinning all-rounder and left-handed batter, she made her international debut in 2023 and quickly made her mark as a specialist in the T20 format. Her 2025 season was a landmark year for her leadership, as she captained the India A side to a historic series victory in Australia, finishing as the leading wicket-taker in the ODIs. She also reached a personal milestone by making her ODI debut for the senior team against Australia in late 2024 and was named as a reserve for India’s triumphant 2025 ODI World Cup squad.

In the Women's Premier League (WPL), Mani has been a vital domestic pillar for the Delhi Capitals, known for her disciplined bowling and athletic fielding. Her 2025 campaign included a standout performance of 3/17 against the Mumbai Indians, helping the Capitals reach their third consecutive final. While she faced a moment of uncertainty during the 2026 mega auction in late 2025, the Delhi Capitals reaffirmed their faith in her by using their final ₹40 lakh to secure her in a dramatic 'accelerated' round. This reunion ensures she continues to develop alongside legends like Meg Lanning and Marizanne Kapp. Off the field, Minnu is celebrated for using her initial WPL earnings to rebuild her family home, which was damaged in the Kerala landslides, making her a true hero both on and off the pitch. As she enters the 2026 season, she remains a vital bridge between the Capitals' elite international core and its rising domestic talent.