The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 auction was packed with drama, unexpected moments, and huge paydays. Fans witnessed several WPL 2026 Auction Top Signings that reshaped team combinations and highlighted the rising value of women’s cricket. From record-breaking all-rounders to surprising unsold stars, the event kept everyone talking.
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Deepti Sharma Headlines the WPL 2026 Auction Top Signings List
The biggest spark of the auction came when India all-rounder Deepti Sharma returned to UP Warriorz for 3.2 crore INR. Her massive deal became one of the WPL 2026 Auction Top Signings, placing her just behind Smriti Mandhana’s 3.4 crore record from 2023. Deepti’s value in T20 cricket continues to rise, and her return to Warriorz adds experience and balance to their lineup.
But the opening marquee set delivered an unexpected twist. Australia captain Alyssa Healy went unsold, surprising fans worldwide. Despite her achievements, she did not receive a single bid, making this one of the biggest shocks among the WPL 2026 Auction Top Signings discussions.
UP Warriorz also brought back England’s top-ranked spinner Sophie Ecclestone for 85 lakh INR, strengthening their spin department. Meanwhile, New Zealand all-rounder Amelia Kerr became one of the major WPL 2026 Auction Top Signings after Mumbai Indians re-signed her for 3 crore INR, securing one of the highest overseas deals of the day.
The Warriorz continued their aggressive approach by adding Australia’s legendary captain Meg Lanning. Delhi Capitals, on the other hand, bagged South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt, although she is unlikely to lead the side. Their co-owner confirmed the franchise prefers an Indian captain for the season.
One of the biggest surprises came from India’s pace bowler Shikha Pandey, who received 2.4 crore INR, placing her among the WPL 2026 Auction Top Signings and marking the third-highest price of the entire event. Her experience and control made her a highly valued pick for Warriorz.
Warriorz did not stop there. They added exciting Indian talents Harleen Deol, Pratika Rawal, and seamer Kranti Gaud, completing a strong local core. Delhi Capitals also made a smart investment by signing young spinner Shree Charani, who has been rising quickly through the domestic circuit.
Mixed Day for England Stars as WPL 2026 Auction Top Signings Shape Team Plans
For England cricketers, the auction brought mixed emotions. While Ecclestone was one of the notable WPL 2026 Auction Top Signings, senior players Heather Knight, Amy Jones, and Sophia Dunkley surprisingly went unsold. Yet, England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt remains part of the league after being retained earlier, making her one of the stable names outside the WPL 2026 Auction Top Signings list.
Several overseas stars also returned through pre-auction retentions, including Australia’s Beth Mooney and Ash Gardner. Their presence ensures a high level of international competition for the upcoming season.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru strengthened their squad by signing England pacer Lauren Bell and spinner Linsey Smith, placing both among the smart WPL 2026 Auction Top Signings based on team needs. Gujarat Giants added experienced batter Danni Wyatt-Hodge, a move praised by fans for boosting their batting depth.
The WPL confirmed that the 2026 edition will run from 9 January to 5 February, making it an early-season cricket attraction. Teams now look stronger, more balanced, and ready for an exciting battle, thanks to the WPL 2026 Auction Top Signings that reshaped the tournament.
With big-money deals, shocking gaps, and fresh talent joining the mix, the upcoming season promises high-intensity action driven by the WPL 2026 Auction Top Signings that have set the stage for a thrilling competition.
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source: BBC Sports
