The WPL 2026 mega auction delivered high drama, record bids, and a few stunning surprises in Delhi on Thursday. Indian allrounders dominated the headlines, with Deepti Sharma, Amelia Kerr, and Shikha Pandey emerging as the biggest earners, while Australian star Alyssa Healy’s shock snub became the talking point of the day.
Deepti Sharma Retained for ₹3.2 Crore via RTM
Indian allrounder Deepti Sharma scripted history by becoming the joint second-most expensive player ever in WPL auction history. UP Warriorz exercised their Right To Match (RTM) option to retain Deepti for ₹3.20 crore, matching a late bid from Delhi Capitals.
Interestingly, Deepti initially went unnoticed at her base price of ₹50 lakh before DC stepped in. Had UPW retained her before the auction, they would have had to sacrifice ₹3.5 crore from their purse — making the RTM move a smart financial decision.
Fresh off a Player of the Tournament performance at the Women’s ODI World Cup, Deepti’s value reflects her impact as a genuine match-winner with both bat and ball.
Amelia Kerr Returns to Mumbai Indians for ₹3 Crore
New Zealand allrounder Amelia Kerr became the second-most expensive buy of the auction, with Mumbai Indians securing her for ₹3 crore. MI, who had limited options after retaining five players, went all-in to bring back a familiar face.
MI head coach Lisa Keightley emphasised the importance of continuity, highlighting how retaining a proven core can provide a competitive edge in a short tournament like the WPL.
Kerr remained MI’s only purchase across the first three auction sets, underlining how central she is to their team structure.
Shikha Pandey’s Big Payday Surprises Many
One of the biggest shocks of the auction was Shikha Pandey’s ₹2.4 crore deal with UP Warriorz. Despite not featuring for India since 2023, UPW showed immense faith in her experience, leadership, and ability to deliver under pressure.
Her price tag placed her among the top earners of the day and reinforced UPW’s strategy of strengthening their Indian core.
Alyssa Healy Goes Unsold in Stunning Twist
The auction opened with a moment few expected — Alyssa Healy went unsold at her base price of ₹50 lakh. Even during the accelerated rounds, no franchise placed her name back on the wishlist.
The lack of demand surprised many, especially given Healy’s international pedigree. However, team combinations, overseas limits, and a preference for allrounders likely played a role in her omission.
Other Key Buys from the Marquee Set
- Sophie Devine was the first player sold, joining Gujarat Giants for ₹2 crore
- Meg Lanning landed at UP Warriorz for ₹1.9 crore
- Sophie Ecclestone returned to UPW via RTM for ₹85 lakh
- Renuka Singh signed with Gujarat Giants for ₹60 lakh
- Laura Wolvaardt was picked up by Delhi Capitals for ₹1.1 crore
Notably, Royal Challengers Bengaluru did not make any marquee purchases, opting instead to invest in later sets.
UP Warriorz Build Strong Core with Smart RTM Usage
UP Warriorz were among the most active franchises, successfully bringing back key players and adding fresh talent:
- Phoebe Litchfield joined for ₹1.2 crore
- Kiran Navgire was retained via RTM for ₹60 lakh
- Kranti Gaud returned at her base price
However, they missed out on promising spinner Sree Charani, who was snapped up by Delhi Capitals for ₹1.3 crore.
Delhi Capitals Invest in Youth and Leadership
Delhi Capitals made headlines by signing 16-year-old Deeya Yadav for ₹10 lakh. The hard-hitting Haryana batter is already being touted as a future star, with comparisons to Shafali Verma due to her fearless stroke play.
DC co-owner Parth Jindal confirmed that while Wolvaardt brings leadership experience, the franchise is keen on appointing an Indian captain for WPL 2026.
Record Context: Where Deepti Stands
The most expensive player in WPL history remains Smriti Mandhana (₹3.4 crore), followed by Ashleigh Gardner and Nat Sciver-Brunt (₹3.2 crore). Deepti Sharma now joins that elite bracket with her latest deal.
WPL 2026 Season Details
- Start Date: January 9, 2026
- Final: February 5, 2026
- Venues: Navi Mumbai and Vadodara
With squads taking shape and strategies clearly defined, the WPL 2026 season promises fierce competition, deeper Indian talent, and another leap forward for women’s franchise cricket.
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