Prendergast joins Indian cricket elite with Gujarat Giants deal

Orla Prendergast has taken another major step in her flourishing career after securing a lucrative deal with Gujarat Giants in India's Women's Premier League (WPL).

The 24-year-old all-rounder becomes the first current Ireland international to earn a WPL contract, although she is the second former or current Irish international to make the breakthrough after Dublin-born Kim Garth, who now represents Australia. Indeed, the pair will be teammates at Gujarat, who snapped up Prendergast for 30 lakh rupees at the recent player auction.

The move represents another significant milestone for Prendergast, whose reputation continues to grow on the international franchise circuit. Currently representing Brisbane Heat in Australia's Women's Big Bash League, she was also named in the Team of the Tournament at this summer's Women's T20 World Cup. Prendergast, who made her Ireland debut in 2019, is understandably excited at the prospect of rubbing shoulders with some of the world's finest players in a competition renowned for its huge crowds and high standards.

"It's really cool to be the first current Irish woman to get picked up in the WPL," she said. "I've watched it for the last few years since it started and it looks like a real spectacle for women's cricket, played in some amazing stadiums with some really big crowds.

"The Gujarat Giants have an unbelievable team with some incredible overseas players, so it will be a great experience to play with those players and hopefully learn a lot more."

Prendergast will be joining a formidable squad featuring Australian stars Ashleigh Gardner and Beth Mooney, New Zealand all-rounder Sophie Devine and former Ireland teammate Garth. She believes the opportunity to train and compete alongside established international stars has been instrumental in her development.

"Playing in franchise tournaments has done a lot for my game," she said. "I've had the opportunity to play with some of the best players around the world, including some leading Australian internationals. To be able to rub shoulders with them and see how they go about their business is a privilege. It's also nice to hear different opinions and perspectives on your game, as well as different things you do well or need to work on."

The fifth edition of the WPL takes place from January 14 to February 7, 2027, and Prendergast's inclusion is another welcome boost for the profile of Irish women's cricket.

For one of Ireland's brightest talents, the journey continues on one of the sport's biggest stages.