WPL Auction 2026: Top 5 Players with Record-Breaking Bids
The WPL Auction 2026 didn’t just make headlines, it rewrote them. With franchises ready to rebuild, reload and reshape their cores, this year’s auction turned into a showcase of high-stakes bidding, bold predictions and rising stars stepping into superstar territory.
In this post, we dive deep into the top 5 most expensive buys of the auction and provides you with a detailed analysis of what created these players to be seen as valuable trade pieces being offered to franchises, as well as how those players are projected to change the upcoming WPL Season due to their presence on these franchises’ 2026 WPL roster brought to you by Your IPL News.
Top Players Who Stole the Spotlight
The WPL Auction 2026 created many exciting moments throughout the day for fans and teams alike, but these players drew all the interest with their eye-popping bids and future-shaping abilities.
1. Deepti Sharma – The Premier All-Rounder
Topping the auction charts was Deepti Sharma, who commanded a massive bid of ₹3.2 crore, the highest of the day. Deepti’s off-spin bowling is outstanding; she offers an exceptional option for middle overs, as well as provides all-round contribution to the batting order. The UP Warriorz are very confident in Deepti due to her past performances in World Cups, and her knowledge of the domestic leagues. Signing her is an excellent decision for the UP Warriorz; she has shown to be supportive for franchisees across all forms of the game.
By signing Deepti Sharma, the UP Warriorz have decided that Deepti Sharma is going to be one of the most important portions of their game plans (in both batting and bowling). Deepti Sharma will be an integral part of the game plan for all WPL franchises.
2. Amelia Kerr – Top Overseas All-Rounder
The second player to achieve the highest price on auction day was Amelia Kerr, at ₹3.0 crores. No matter what franchise, signing Amelia Kerr is an excellent investment. Amelia’s ability to bowl and to bat make her an incredibly valuable and versatile asset to all teams. With previous experience playing at international tournaments, such as the ICC T20 World Cup, teams signing Amelia can expect an excellent return on investment.
Mumbai Indians Women secured Kerr, gaining a seasoned overseas all-rounder capable of changing the game in rain-or-shine conditions, an asset no WPL side can ignore.
3. Shikha Pandey – Dream Purchase for Bowling Units
One of the biggest surprises of the auction was Shikha Pandey, who went for ₹2.4 crore.While she may not be constantly in the international arena, she has created herself as a desirable player through her constant performance in domestic cricket and experience in the pace bowling category. For teams looking to balance their bowling attack especially in powerplay overs or death overs Pandey offers value that goes beyond her price.
Delhi Capitals Women saw her as a strategic buy, bringing depth, experience, and match-winning potential across all departments.
4. Sophie Devine – Power-Hitter + Versatile All-Rounder Combo
The veteran New Zealand all-rounder Sophie Devine was bought for ₹2.0 crore, making her one of the top five buys of the auction. Devine brings aggressive batting, handy bowling options, and international experience, a potent mix for T20 cricket. Her reputation as a hard-hitter makes her especially valuable under pressure, whether during chases or setting competitive totals.
Royal Challengers Bangalore Women picked Devine to add firepower and flexibility to their top-order, while also providing backup with her bowling capabilities.
5. Meg Lanning – Experience and Leadership in One
Rounding out the top 5 was Australian veteran Meg Lanning, who went for ₹1.9 crore. Known for her calm temperament, sharp cricketing mind and proven leadership on the world stage, Lanning represents more than runs; she brings experience, stability and a tactical edge. Teams often pay a premium for players who can guide the side under pressure and mentor younger talent; Lanning fits that role perfectly.
Gujarat Giants Women invested in Lanning not just for her batting prowess but also for her leadership skills, mentoring young talent, and adding strategic depth to the squad.
What This Auction Tells Us And What to Watch For
The WPL 2026 auction highlights how franchises are evolving their strategies, focusing on balance, versatility, and multi-dimensional players. Fans should watch how these top buys influence team dynamics, match outcomes, and the overall competitiveness of the league this season.
Changing Priorities: Balance Over Glamour
Unlike early auctions that often prioritized star power alone, this WPL auction signaled a shift: franchises are looking for balanced all-rounders, reliable bowlers, and versatile players who can contribute in multiple facets of the game. Deepti Sharma, Amelia Kerr, Pandey, Devine, and Lanning all bring multi-dimensional skills.
Strategic Team Building Across Departments
The franchises are constructing teams in a way that allows for versatility in both batting and bowling. All of the high-priced acquisitions reflect a trend toward making the most of every position in the lineup. There will be an emphasis on having depth in the batting lineup, and alternates available for every position in the bowling lineup.
The Price for Proven Talent Is Climbing
With the price of established players rising, it is clear that the WPL teams have decided to spend significant sums of money on players who have established themselves at either an international or domestic T20 level. This trend appears to indicate that the WPL is going to be a major competitor within the professional sports world and is not merely for entertainment in India.
Conclusion
The WPL 2026 auction has clearly raised the bar and the top 5 buys show us why. From the multi-talented Deepti Sharma to the seasoned Meg Lanning, these players represent more than just price tags; they are the foundation stones of their new teams. Whether it’s all-round balance, power-hitting, leadership or bowling attack, franchises have chosen wisely.
For fans, this means one thing: we can expect a high-quality, competitive WPL season ahead, where strategy, depth and versatility will matter as much as star power.
At Your IPL News, we will provide ongoing coverage of every match, every performance, and every surprise from the WPL 2026 season. It promises to be an unforgettable year!
