WPL 2026 Auction Sees Big Bids, Surprises and New Stars Rising

The WPL 2026 mega auction turned into a full-on spectacle as 277 players went under the hammer for just 73 available slots across five teams. The energy in the room was high from the first paddle lift, with franchises going all-in for some of the biggest names in women’s cricket.

Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma became the star of the day, attracting aggressive bidding before UP Warriorz snapped her up for a massive ₹3.2 crore. Overseas talent also saw strong demand, with New Zealand’s Amelia Kerr joining Mumbai Indians for ₹3 crore and veteran all-rounder Sophie Devine landing with Gujarat Giants for ₹2 crore.

But the auction also had its surprises. Despite her international reputation, Australia’s Alyssa Healy went unsold — one of the biggest talking points of the event. Several young domestic players, however, received unexpected attention and high-value bids, showing how franchises are now betting on future potential as much as proven experience.

This year’s auction highlighted how rapidly the WPL is growing. With rising viewership, bigger sponsorship numbers and strong performances by the Indian women’s team in global tournaments, the league’s value has exploded. Franchises are spending boldly, fans are engaging more than ever, and women’s cricket is clearly entering a new era of recognition and opportunity.

Overall, the 2026 WPL auction proved that the competition is no longer just an add-on to the cricket calendar — it's becoming a powerhouse on its own, shaping careers and shifting the balance of women's franchise cricket.