This mega auction in Delhi surprised everyone. The biggest talking point was India all-rounder Deepti Sharma, who was bought back by UP Warriors via RTM card for ₹3.20 crore (US$1.2 million), becoming the most expensive player of the day.
Mumbai Indians, meanwhile, made a strong decision and further strengthened their core strength by acquiring New Zealand star Amelia Kerr for ₹3 crore (US$1.2 million).
WPL 2026: Top Buys and Surprises
The most unexpected development of this auction was that Australia captain Alyssa Healy, despite being the first caller, went unsold without any bids. Similarly, Australia’s Alana King was also not bought by any team.
Delhi Capitals made an aggressive bid, acquiring Shree Charni and Chinelle Henry for ₹1.30 crore (US$1.30 million), while Laura Wolvaardt went for ₹1.10 crore (US$1.10 million).
UP Warriors also made a big move, signing Shikha Pandey for ₹2.40 crore (approximately $2.4 million), who has been out of the Indian team since 2023.
WPL 2026 Full Squads: Who went to which team on Auction Day?
Mumbai Indians have a balanced lineup with Nat Sciver-Brunt, Harmanpreet Kaur, Hayley Matthews, Amelia Kerr, and Shabnim Ismail.
Delhi Capitals have power hitters like Jemimah Shafali, Kapp, Sutland, Laura, and Shree Charni, along with new talent.
RCB has match-winners like Smriti Mandhana, Richa Ghosh, Ellyse Perry, and Pooja Vastrakar.
Gujarat Giants have a strong line-up with Devine, Mony, Gardner, and Renuka Singh.
UP Warriors have a formidable combination with Deepti Sharma, Sophie Eccleston, Meg Lanning, and Shikha Pandey.
A total of 67 players were purchased in this auction, while the squad slots totaled 77.
The upcoming season will see intense competition between these teams, and fan excitement is expected to be even greater than before.
