The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 Player Auctionheld in New Delhi on Thursday, delivered 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, eventually signing 67 players by the end of the event.

The auction witnessed multiple seven-figure deals, reflecting the growing commercial value and popularity of women’s cricket in India. Teams entered the auction with clear strategies – some targeting experienced internationals, others focusing on emerging talent – and bidding wars quickly pushed prices well beyond base values.

Deepti Sharma tops the charts as franchises push prices higher

India all-rounder Deepti Sharma emerged as the most expensive buy of the WPL 2026 Auction. The UP Warriorz secured her for a massive ₹3.2 crore, far above her base price of ₹50 lakh. Her ability to control the middle overs, contribute with the bat and bring leadership experience made her a must-have pick for the franchise.

Close behind was New Zealand star Amelia Kerr, snapped up by the Mumbai Indians for ₹3 crore. One of the world’s best all-rounders, Kerr has consistently been a match-winner in both league and international cricket, making her one of the day’s most anticipated signings.

UP Warriorz dominate big signings with multiple high-value picks

The UP Warriorz were among the most active teams at the top end of the auction. Along with Deepti Sharma, they bolstered their lineup by signing seasoned pacer Shikha Pandey for ₹2.4 crore, making her the third-costliest buy of the day. Her experience and reliability with the new ball made her a prized acquisition.

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. In addition, rising talent Phoebe Litchfield joined their squad for ₹1.2 crore, giving the Warriorz a strong blend of youth and experience.

Delhi Capitals strengthen middle order and bowling depth

The Delhi Capitals also made headline-worthy moves with two value-equivalent signings. They roped in Chinelle Henry and Shree Charani, each for ₹1.3 crore, strengthening both their middle-order batting and seam-bowling options.

South African opener and captain Laura Wolvaardt, known for her consistency in top-order roles across formats, was added for ₹1.1 crore. Her reliability in high-pressure chases and tournament experience makes her a key addition for Delhi.

Gujarat Giants add power with Sophie Devine’s purchase

The Gujarat Giants made one of the most strategic moves of the auction by securing explosive New Zealand all-rounder Sophie Devine for ₹2 crore. With her power-hitting ability and knack for producing breakthroughs, Devine’s signing was one of the day’s most celebrated buys.

Top 10 costliest player buys in WPL 2026 Auction

1. Deepti Sharma (UP Warriorz) – Base Price: ₹50 Lac | Winning Bid: ₹3.2 Cr
2. Amelia Kerr (Mumbai Indians) – Base Price: ₹50 Lac | Winning Bid: ₹3 Cr
3. Shikha Pandey (UP Warriorz) – Base Price: ₹40 Lac | Winning Bid: ₹2.4 Cr
4. Sophie Devine (Gujarat Giants) – Base Price: ₹50 Lac | Winning Bid: ₹2 Cr
5. Meg Lanning (UP Warriorz) – Base Price: ₹50 Lac | Winning Bid: ₹1.9 Cr
6. Chinelle Henry (Delhi Capitals) – Base Price: ₹30 Lac | Winning Bid: ₹1.3 Cr
7. Shree Charani (Delhi Capitals) – Base Price: ₹30 Lac | Winning Bid: ₹1.3 Cr
8. Phoebe Litchfield (UP Warriorz) – Base Price: ₹50 Lac | Winning Bid: ₹1.2 Cr
9. Laura Wolvaardt (Delhi Capitals) – Base Price: ₹30 Lac | Winning Bid: ₹1.1 Cr
10. Asha Sobhana (UP Warriorz) – Base Price: ₹30 Lac | Winning Bid: ₹1.1 Cr

This article was first published at WomenCricket.coma Read company.