The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 player auction has concluded, setting the stage for an exciting new season. New Delhi hosted the event where all five franchises strategically picked 67 players. Mallika Sagar expertly led the proceedings as auctioneer. The auction saw significant investments in top talent, surprising players going unsold, and the strategic use of Right to Match (RTM) cards, reshaping team compositions.
UP Warriorz made a major move, securing all-rounder Deepti Sharma for ₹3.20 crore using their RTM option, making her the most expensive player of the auction. Mumbai Indians also bolstered their ranks, acquiring New Zealand’s Amelia Kerr for ₹3 crore. A notable surprise was Australian captain Alyssa Healy, who, with a base price of ₹50 lakh, did not receive any bids. The overall auction results presented a dynamic mix of high-profile acquisitions, value domestic signings, and prominent players who missed out on contracts.
Further exciting news for WPL fans includes the confirmed dates and venues for the 2026 season. Reports indicate the tournament is set to commence on January 8 or 9. Mumbai and Baroda have been finalized as the two host cities. The iconic D.Y. Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, recently the site of India’s historic ODI World Cup final victory, is confirmed as one of the venues. The Kotambi Stadium in Baroda is slated to be the second venue, also set to host the India vs. New Zealand ODI on January 11.
