Cricket

Orla Prendergast Becomes First Irish Cricketer Signed in WPL Auction

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Oct 28, 2026, 19:32 IST

Irish all-rounder Orla Prendergast has made history by becoming the first player from her nation to secure a Women's Premier League contract, joining the Gujarat Giants for Rs 30 lakh.

Orla Prendergast Becomes First Irish Cricketer Signed in WPL Auction

Irish cricket reached a significant milestone during the 2027 Women's Premier League (WPL) auction in Kochi, as all-rounder Orla Prendergast became the first player from Ireland to secure a contract in the tournament. The 24-year-old was acquired by the Gujarat Giants for her base price of Rs 30 lakh, marking a breakthrough moment for Irish representation in the franchise competition.

Born in Dublin in 2002, Prendergast has established herself as a vital component of the Irish national setup since her international debut. Her transition into the WPL follows a period of consistent performances on the global stage, where her dual-threat capability as a right-handed batter and right-arm medium-fast bowler has drawn attention from scouts and selectors alike.

A Proven International Performer

Prendergast’s statistical record highlights her impact across both white-ball formats. In her 50 Women's ODI appearances, she has accumulated 1,332 runs, including a career-best unbeaten 122, while also claiming 30 wickets. Her T20 International career is equally impressive, spanning 88 matches with 2,054 runs and 69 wickets, featuring a top score of 80.

Her rise to prominence was cemented in September 2025, when the ICC named her the Women's Player of the Month for August. This recognition followed a standout series against Pakistan, where she contributed 144 runs and four wickets to help Ireland secure a 2-1 series victory. She maintained this momentum during the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Europe Qualifier, tallying 244 runs and seven wickets to further solidify her reputation as a match-winner.

From Football Pitch to Cricket Stardom

Before committing to cricket as her primary professional pursuit, Prendergast was a talented footballer. Her early athletic career included representing the Republic of Ireland at the under-17 level and playing club football for Cabinteely FC. Ultimately, she chose to focus on cricket, a decision that has paved the way for her historic entry into the WPL.

Having made her T20I debut in 2019 and her ODI debut in 2021, Prendergast has steadily evolved into one of Ireland's most reliable international players. Her inclusion in the Gujarat Giants squad for the upcoming season represents the next chapter in her career, offering her a platform to showcase her skills in one of the world's most competitive T20 leagues.