The upcoming Women’s Premier League 2026 (WPL 2026) suffered a major setback as several international stars withdrew from the next season citing national duty and personal reasons. Just before the Women’s Premier League 2026 begins, teams have been forced to make sudden changes that have shaken up their plans.
United States left-arm fast bowler Tara Norris has surprised UP Warriors by opting out of WPL 2026 due to national commitments. Norris has been named in the USA squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier in Nepal. The qualifiers run from January 18 to February 1, clashing with the WPL.
The upcoming Indian League starts on January 9, which means Norris will miss the entire season. To replace Norris, UP Warriors have taken a gamble by signing uncapped Australian all-rounder Charlie Knott. Knott has joined UP Warriors at a base price of Rs 10 lakh.
Teams forced to make last-minute replacements ahead of WPL 2026
The shock did not end here, as two big Australian stars also confirmed their withdrawal from WPL 2026. Ellyse Perry will not be available for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), while Delhi Capitals (DC) will also be without Annabel Sutherland in the next edition of the tournament.
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Both Perry and Sutherland cited personal reasons for their decisions. As a result, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have included Indian all-rounder Sayali Satghare in the squad for a price of Rs 30 lakh.
On the other hand, Delhi Capitals (DC) have signed senior Australian leg spinner Alana King at her base price of Rs 60 lakh to replace Sutherland for the next Women’s Premier League season.
to be continued…
