WPL 2026: The 2026 Women’s Premier League mega auction in New Delhi saw intense bidding as five franchises competed for 73 available slots from a pool of 277 players, including 194 Indians and 83 overseas cricketers.
Record-Breaking Purchase and Notable Omission
Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma emerged as the auction’s highest-paid player in WPL 2026, acquired by UP Warriorz for Rs 3.20 crore. In a surprising development, Australian wicketkeeper-batter Alyssa Healy went unsold, generating significant discussion among cricket followers.
Mumbai Indians Strengthen Championship Core
The defending champions, operating with limited funds alongside Delhi Capitals, made strategic acquisitions. Mumbai Indians secured New Zealand all-rounder Amelia Kerr for Rs 3 crore while retaining key players from their 2025 title-winning squad, including Hayley Matthews, Shabnim Ismail, and Saika Ishaque. Australian all-rounder Nicola Carey joined to add batting and bowling depth.
Delhi Capitals Build Balanced Squad
Delhi Capitals targeted a combination of experienced players and emerging talent. The franchise signed Laura Wolvaardt, Shree Charani, and Chinelle Henry to bolster batting and spin bowling options. With Jemimah Rodrigues and Shafali Verma providing top-order stability, wicketkeeper Taniya Bhatia returning, and Lizelle Lee strengthening the batting lineup, Delhi appears well-equipped across departments.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Prioritize Depth
RCB constructed their squad through measured selections, adding power hitters Grace Harris, Georgia Voll, and Nadine de Klerk. Their bowling attack combines pace options Pooja Vastrakar and Lauren Bell with spinners Radha Yadav and Linsey Smith, creating a balanced unit.
UP Warriorz Assemble Star-Studded Lineup
Beyond Deepti Sharma’s marquee signing, UP Warriorz acquired former Australian captain Meg Lanning, Phoebe Litchfield, and Deandra Dottin to create a formidable batting order. England spinner Sophie Ecclestone enhances their spin attack, while seamers Shikha Pandey, Kranti Goud, and Kiran Navgire provide variety and depth.
Gujarat Giants Face Uphill Challenge
Gujarat Giants retained core players Beth Mooney and Ashleigh Gardner but made limited impact during the auction. Compared to rival franchises, their batting and bowling resources appear less substantial, leaving them heavily dependent on individual performances.
The WPL 2026 commences in January 2026, with newly assembled squads set to compete in what promises to be competitive women’s T20 cricket action.
