Shikha Pandey

Shikha Pandey is a distinguished Indian pacer and a veteran of the game whose longevity and tactical intelligence have earned her the affectionate nickname 'Shikhipedia.' Born on May 12, 1989, in Telangana, she is not only a world-class athlete but also a serving Squadron Leader in the Indian Air Force. Known for her ability to swing the ball and provide early breakthroughs, she was a cornerstone of the Indian team that reached the 2017 ODI World Cup final and the 2020 T20 World Cup final. Her 2025 season was a testament to her enduring class; despite being away from the national setup, she finished the 2025 WPL as a top performer for the Delhi Capitals, claiming 11 wickets and playing a vital role in leading them to their third consecutive final. She also stayed sharp through global stints, representing the Trinbago Knight Riders in the WCPL and Brisbane Heat in the WBBL.

The late 2025 WPL mega auction turned into one of the most historic moments of her career. In a dramatic bidding war that stunned the room, the UP Warriorz secured her services for a staggering ₹2.4 crore—the third-highest bid of the entire auction and 12 times her base price. This move ends her successful three-season stint with the Delhi Capitals and reunites her with former DC captain Meg Lanning, who also moved to the Warriorz. For the Lucknow-based franchise, Shikha is seen as the 'anchor' of their domestic pace unit, bringing over 100 international appearances of experience to a revamped bowling attack. As she gears up for the 2026 season starting in January, Shikha’s record-breaking deal stands as a powerful validation of her hard work and her status as one of India's premier fast bowlers.