Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 Player AuctionHeld in New Delhi on Thursday, it was one of the most competitive bidding days in the league’s young history. All five franchises aggressively pursued top-tier talent as they completed their squads, ultimately signing 67 players by the end of the event.
The auction saw several seven-figure deals, reflecting the growing commercial value and popularity of women’s cricket in India. Teams entered the auction with clear strategies – some targeted experienced international players, others focused on emerging talent – and bidding wars pushed prices well beyond base values.
Deepti Sharma tops the charts as franchises raise prices
India’s all-rounder Deepti Sharma WPL emerged as the most expensive purchase of the 2026 auction. UP Warriors secured him for ₹3.2 crore, much more than his base price of ₹50 lakh. His ability to control the middle overs, contribute with the bat and bring leadership experience made him a must-pick for the franchise.
Behind her was New Zealand star Amelia Kerr, who was bought by Mumbai Indians for ₹3 crore. One of the best all-rounders in the world, Kerr has been a consistent match-winner in both league and international cricket, making her one of the most anticipated signings of the day.
UP Warriors dominate big signings with several high-value selections
UP Warriors were one of the most active teams at the top of the auction. Along with Deepti Sharma, they strengthened their lineup by signing veteran fast bowler Shikha Pandey for ₹2.4 crore, making her the third most expensive purchase of the day. His experience and reliability with the new ball made him a prized possession.
The team also secured Meg Lanning for ₹1.9 crore, adding a world-class leader and one of the most successful captains in women’s cricket history. Additionally, emerging talent Phoebe Lichfield joined their team for ₹1.2 crore, giving the Warriors a strong mix of youth and experience.
Delhi Capitals strengthened middle-order and bowling depth
Delhi Capitals also made headline-grabbing moves with two value-equivalent signings. They added Chinelle Henry and Sri Charani for ₹1.3 crore, strengthening both their middle-order batting and seam-bowling options.
South Africa’s opening batsman and captain Laura Wolvaardt, known for her consistency in top-order roles across all formats, was added for ₹1.1 crore. His reliability in high-pressure chases and tournament experience makes him a key player for Delhi.
Gujarat Giants’ strength increased with the purchase of Sophie Devine
Gujarat Giants made the most strategic move of the auction by buying explosive New Zealand all-rounder Sophie Devine for ₹2 crore. With his power-hitting ability and knack for scoring breakthroughs, Devine’s signing was one of the most celebrated purchases of the day.
Also read: Fans shocked as Australia captain Alyssa Healy remains unsold in WPL 2026 mega auction
Top 10 most expensive players purchased wpl 2026 auction
- Deepti Sharma (UP Warriors) – Base price: ₹50 lakh | Winning bid: ₹3.2 crore
- amelia kerr (Mumbai Indians) – Base Price: ₹50 lakh | Winning bid: ₹3 crore
- Shikha Pandey (UP Warriors) – Base price: ₹40 lakh | Winning bid: ₹2.4 crore
- Sophie Devine (Gujarat Giants) – Base Price: ₹50 Lakh | Winning bid: ₹2 crore
- meg lanning (UP Warriors) – Base price: ₹50 lakh | Winning bid: ₹1.9 crore
- chenille henry (Delhi Capitals) – Base price: ₹30 lakh | Winning bid: ₹1.3 crore
- Sricharani (Delhi Capitals) – Base price: ₹30 lakh | Winning bid: ₹1.3 crore
- Phoebe Lichfield (UP Warriors) – Base price: ₹50 lakh | Winning bid: ₹1.2 crore
- Laura Wolvaardt (Delhi Capitals) – Base price: ₹30 lakh | Winning bid: ₹1.1 crore
- Asha Shobhana (UP Warriors) – Base price: ₹30 lakh | Winning bid: ₹1.1 crore
Also read: WPL 2026 Auction – Full Squads of All 5 Teams
This article was first published here WomenCricket.comA Cricket Times Company.
