WPL 2026: Vaishnavi Sharma Joins Mumbai Indians for INR 30 Lakh as Kamalini Ruled Out with Injury

Mumbai Indians have been dealt a significant blow in their WPL 2026 campaign with wicketkeeper-batter G Kamalini ruled out of the remainder of the tournament due to an undisclosed injury. The two-time champions have moved swiftly to bring in left-arm spinner Vaishnavi Sharma as her replacement for INR 30 lakh.

Kamalini's Impact Before Injury

Kamalini had been a consistent presence in the Mumbai Indians lineup, featuring in all five of the franchise's matches this season. The wicketkeeper-batter contributed 75 runs from 77 balls, with a highest score of 32, while also proving valuable behind the stumps with seven dismissals to her name.

Her absence creates a gap in MI's batting lineup and leaves them searching for wicketkeeping alternatives within their existing squad.

Vaishnavi Sharma: From Unsold to Mumbai Indian

In a remarkable turn of events, Vaishnavi Sharma gets her WPL opportunity after going unsold at the auction held in late November. The left-arm spinner will now make her WPL debut under the captaincy of Harmanpreet Kaur – the same skipper who led her during her international debut.

Vaishnavi burst onto the international scene during the T20I series against Sri Lanka in Visakhapatnam and Thiruvananthapuram last December. In that series, she claimed five wickets including two separate two-wicket hauls, while maintaining an impressive economy rate of 6.26 across five matches.

A Different Skill Set

It's worth noting that MI have replaced a keeper-batter with a specialist spinner, indicating a strategic shift in their approach. Vaishnavi's ability to control the run flow could prove crucial in the tournament's business end, particularly on surfaces that offer turn.

Mumbai Indians' Season So Far

The defending champions have experienced an inconsistent campaign, recording two wins and three losses from their five matches. Despite the mixed results, they currently sit second on the points table, level on points with UP Warriorz and Gujarat Giants.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru lead the standings with a perfect record of five wins from five matches, setting a formidable pace at the top.

What Lies Ahead

Mumbai Indians face Delhi Capitals, who are currently bottom of the table, in their next fixture on Tuesday evening. This match presents an opportunity for MI to build momentum and potentially integrate Vaishnavi into their playing XI.

With the two-time champions looking to add a third WPL title to their cabinet, how they manage this squad disruption could prove decisive in their campaign.

Future Outlook

Vaishnavi Sharma's inclusion adds a quality spin option to Mumbai Indians' bowling attack. Her international experience, despite being limited, and her ability to bowl economically in T20 cricket make her a valuable addition. The franchise will be hoping she can make an immediate impact as they look to climb back to the top of the standings and defend their WPL crown.