VJ Joshitha has made history as the youngest player to represent Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Women’s Premier League (WPL). At just 18 years and 205 days old, she is also the third youngest to debut in the tournament’s history, behind Shabnam Shakil and Parshavi Chopra. Smriti Mandhana-led RCB is playing the Women’s Premier League (WPL) opening match against Gujarat Giants, where they were put to bat first in Vadodara.
Who is JV Joshitha?
Joshitha’s journey to the WPL has been nothing short of inspiring. She was in Malaysia, celebrating a victory in the U19 Women’s Asia Cup, when her name was called at the auction. Born in Kerala, she follows in the footsteps of Minnu Mani and Sajeevan Sajana, who paved the way for young talents from Kerala.
A pace-bowling all-rounder, Joshitha has spent years refining her game at the Wayanad Cricket Academy. She has also worked as a net bowler for the Delhi Capitals, learning from experienced players like Shikha Pandey and Arundhati Reddy. Known for her ability to swing the ball both ways, she brings a sharp edge to RCB’s bowling attack that has been struggling with massive injury issues.
Youngest debutants in WPL history ft. Joshitha
| Rank | Player | Team | Age | Debut Match | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shabnam Shakil | GG | 16y 263d | vs RCB | 2024 |
| 2 | Parshavi Chopra | UPW | 16y 312d | vs MI | 2023 |
| 3 | VJ Joshitha | RCB | 18y 205d | vs GG | 2025 |
| 4 | Alice Capsey | DC | 18y 206d | vs RCB | 2023 |
| 5 | Shweta Sehrawat | UPW | 19y 7d | vs GG | 2023 |
| 6 | Shafali Verma | DC | 19y 36d | vs RCB | 2023 |
