Shikha Pandey Shares Insights on WPL 2026 Auction Experience

In a recent interview, veteran cricketer Shikha Pandey discussed her experience during the WPL 2026 auction, where she was sold to UP Warriorz for Rs 2.40 crore. Reflecting on her journey, she expressed excitement about joining the team and playing alongside Australian star Meg Lanning. The upcoming WPL season promises to be unique, with a Thursday final and matches held in January-February, breaking from tradition. Discover more about Shikha's transition and the league's new format in this insightful article.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 5, 2025, 02:14 IST

Shikha Pandey's WPL 2026 Auction Journey

New Delhi, December 4: Veteran Indian cricketer Shikha Pandey opened up about her feelings during the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 auction.

At 36, Shikha emerged as the third-most-expensive player in the auction, securing a deal with the UP Warriorz for an impressive Rs 2.40 crore.

During an interview on JioHotstar, she expressed her relief at being part of the UP franchise, despite the anxiety she felt leading up to the auction.

“There was certainly some anxiety, but I kept reminding myself that what’s meant to be will be. I have faith in the hard work I’ve put in over the last three seasons. I’m thrilled to join the UP Warriorz family,” Shikha stated.

Previously with the Delhi Capitals, Shikha discussed her transition to the new team, expressing excitement about playing alongside Australian cricket star Meg Lanning, who was signed for Rs 1.90 crore.

“I am incredibly grateful to Delhi Capitals for their trust and support. Now, with UP Warriorz, I’m looking forward to playing with Meg Lanning and Sophie Ecclestone,” she added.

The WPL 2026 auction took place in New Delhi on November 29, filling 67 slots, including 23 for international players across five franchises.

Deepti Sharma, another Indian all-rounder, became the most expensive player of the auction, being acquired by UP Warriorz for Rs 3.20 crore after they opted for the Right to Match (RTM) option.

This season of the WPL will break tradition, with the final scheduled for a Thursday, February 5, instead of the usual weekend. The tournament kicks off on January 9 and will include two double-header matches on Saturdays, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.

Spanning 28 days, the league will take place at two venues: Navi Mumbai, where the Indian women's team recently won the ODI World Cup against South Africa, and Vadodara. The first 11 matches, including both double-headers, will be hosted at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, while the remaining fixtures, including the eliminator on February 3 and the final, will occur at Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara.

This edition marks the first time the WPL is held in January-February, as the previous seasons were conducted in February-March, just before the Indian Premier League (IPL). Notably, this season will not coincide with any major international matches.

Mumbai Indians (MI), the reigning champions, have won two titles in the first three seasons, while Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is the only other team to have claimed the trophy. Delhi Capitals (DC) have been runners-up in all three editions, while Gujarat Giants (GG) and UP Warriorz (UPW) are still seeking their first final appearance.