Alyssa Healy Goes Unsold in WPL 2026 Auction Amid Surprises
Alyssa Healy's Unexpected Auction Outcome
In a surprising turn of events, Alyssa Healy, the prominent Australian wicketkeeper-batter, remained unsold during the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 auction held on Thursday. Healy was the first player to be auctioned off, but her recent struggles with fitness since the last T20 World Cup and inconsistent performance in the ongoing Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) may have contributed to this outcome. Previously, she was acquired for Rs 70 lakh by UP Warriorz in the WPL 2023 auction.
Amelia Kerr Secures Major Deal with Mumbai Indians
New Zealand's Amelia Kerr made headlines by signing with the Mumbai Indians for a whopping Rs three crore. Kerr has been a key player in the Mumbai teams that clinched two championships in the WPL. The auction saw intense competition between UP Warriorz and Mumbai for her services, ultimately leading to her acquisition by MI for Rs three crore, a significant increase from her previous signing of Rs one crore in WPL 2023.
Delhi Capitals Acquire Laura Wolvaardt
Laura Wolvaardt, the captain of South Africa, was successfully signed by the Delhi Capitals for Rs 1.10 crore. Wolvaardt showcased impressive batting skills during the ICC Women's World Cup 2025. Initially listed with a base price of Rs 30 lakh, her bidding quickly escalated after Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) initiated the auction. Delhi Capitals aggressively pursued her, ultimately securing her for INR 1.1 crore. This acquisition is strategic for Delhi, as Wolvaardt is expected to lead the team and open the innings alongside Shafali Verma in the upcoming WPL 2026 season, filling the gap left by the release of Australian star Meg Lanning.
Other Notable Auction Outcomes
During the WPL 2026 auction, South African opener Tazmin Brits and Indian player S Meghana also went unsold, highlighting the competitive nature of the auction.
WPL 2026 Auction Overview
The WPL 2026 auction featured a total of 277 cricketers, including 194 Indian players and 83 international players. Among the Indian players, 52 are capped, while the overseas contingent includes 66 capped players.