In preparation for the fifth season of the Tennis Premier League (TPL) powered by Clear, the eight franchises emerged from the auction after assembling competitive rosters with a mix of fascinating talent from across the globe and Indian players during the event conducted at the Sahara Star Hotel in Mumbai.
Sumit Nagal, the current All-India Tennis Association (AITA) Hyderabad Strikers' Strategic Picks No. 1 men's singles player, was introduced to the league ahead of Season 5 of the TPL as the marquee player and became the most expensive pick at the auction. Despite stiff competition from other franchises for the signature of India's star tennis player, he was acquired by the Ramku Patgirowned Gujarat Panthers for Rs18.5 lakhs, thanks to decisive bidding by the Panthers' celebrity ambassador, Arjun Kapoor.
Additionally, the Gujarat Panthers secured Karman Kaur Thandi for Rs 8.5 lakhs, a player with three singles ITF titles to her name. The Panthers also added Mukund Sasikumar to their roster, demonstrating a knack for savvy business by picking up the up-and-coming Indian player.
Hyderabad Strikers' Strategic Picks
Defending champions Hyderabad Strikers, supported by the graceful Rakul Preet Singh, displayed a keen strategy during the auction. The most expensive acquisition for the ENN Sport-owned franchise was Ellen Perez at Rs 14 lakhs. Perez boasts five doubles titles on the WTA Tour, two doubles titles on the WTA Challenger Tour, and two singles and 19 doubles titles on the ITF Circuit. The Australian player will bring a wealth of experience and talent to the Hyderabad team, as they aim for their third consecutive TPL title. They also retained the services of Nikki Poonacha, who played a pivotal role in the team's success last season. The Strikers' roster was completed with the addition of Saketh Myneni, a recipient of the prestigious Arjuna Award in 2017 who represents India in the Davis Cup.
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