Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 The mega auction promises to be the most intense auction ever, driven by the huge talent pool that has come into the market. However, some names hold equal financial importance and strategic value Sophie EcclestoneIt was a big surprise for the world-renowned slow left-arm orthodox spinner to be left out of the retention list as he was released by UP Warriors,
Ecclestone, who was instrumental in the Warriors’ campaigns, boasts an impressive WPL record, including being the joint-highest wicket-taker in the inaugural season with 16 wickets. His overall WPL stats are tremendous, with 36 wickets in 25 matches at an impressive average and an economy rate of around 6.68 – extraordinary figures in T20 cricket. His unexpected availability, coupled with the introduction of the Right to Match (RTM) card system, sets the stage for a high-stakes fight. Based on squad gaps and available funds, three franchises stand out as the leading contenders for the English star.
3 teams that could target Sophie Ecclestone in WPL 2026 auction
1. UP Warriors
The UP Warriors management has taken a bold, arguably risky move by retaining only one player, the uncapped Indian opener. Shweta SehrawatThis decision ensures that they enter the mega auction with the largest purse and the entire quota of four Right to Match (RTM) cards, While the intention is clearly to revamp the entire team, the loss of their most effective and consistent wicket-taker is glaring,
The Warriors were built on the stability and control provided by Ecclestone in the middle overs. His presence freed up other bowlers and allowed the team to dictate terms. Now, after retaining only one player, the franchise has a big hole to fill in its bowling line-up. Recapturing Ecclestone by using one of his four RTM cards or by outwitting rivals in the main auction is not just an option – it is a strategic necessity. Doing so allows them to secure a known match-winner who is already familiar with the team environment, while still using their huge purse to build a new core around him.
2.Mumbai Indians
Mumbai Indians (MI) management showed confidence in its proven Championship core by retaining five marquee players Natalie Sciver-Bruntcaptain Harmanpreet Kaur, Hayley Mathews, Amanjot KaurAnd Yes KamaliniThis strongly maintained squad offers an explosive batting unit and two world-class fast bowling all-rounders in Sciver-Brunt and Matthews,
However, an analysis of their intact attack reveals a clear need: a specialist, world-class spinner. While Mathews and Harmanpreet provide off-spin options, the team lacks a frontline slow left-arm orthodox bowler to complete its attack on Indian pitches. Ecclestone’s ability to bowl economically and take wickets at crucial junctures will be a perfect fit for MI’s pace and power-hitting style. His addition will transform their bowling unit from a good attack to possibly the best and most dangerous attack in the league. Since MI has used up all its retention slots, they have no RTM cards and will have to struggle intensely with their remaining wallets to secure their services.
Also read: WPL 2026: 5 players UP Warriors can target in the Women’s Premier League mega auction
3. Delhi Capitals
Delhi Capitals (DC) have also retained their full quota of five players while securing the services of key batsmen. jemima rodrigues And Shafali VermaWorld class fast bowling with all-rounders Annabel Sutherland And marijane kappand uncapped players nikki prasad,
DC have strategically invested heavily in fast bowling all-rounders, creating a strong seam attack. However, like Mumbai, this structure leaves a significant gap in the specialist spin department. With Caps and Sutherland providing power and death over expertise, the Capitals are in dire need of a world-class spinner to deliver the job during the middle overs. Ecclestone’s control, consistency and big-match flair make him the ideal candidate to cement a place in the DC team and provide the variety needed to secure that elusive WPL title.
Also read: WPL 2026: 3 teams that could target Kim Garth in the Women’s Premier League mega auction
This article was first published here WomenCricket.comA Cricket Times Company.