Intense Bidding at WPL 2026 Auctions: Key Signings and Surprises
Exciting Developments at WPL 2026 Auctions
The Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 auctions showcased fierce competition as numerous Indian talents and emerging players secured impressive contracts with various franchises. Kiran Navgire was re-signed by UP Warriorz for ₹60 lakh after the franchise opted to use their Right to Match (RTM) card against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Navgire has been in exceptional form, recently achieving the fastest women's T20 century, scoring a remarkable 34-ball ton for Maharashtra against Punjab during the Women's T20 Trophy. Her reputation for power-hitting made her one of the most coveted players of the auction.
Delhi Capitals Enhance Their Roster
Delhi Capitals bolstered their lineup with two significant acquisitions. They reacquired India's promising pace bowler Sree Charani for ₹1.30 crore. Charani stood out at the Women's World Cup, taking 14 wickets in 9 matches with an average of 27.64, forming a strong partnership with veteran Deepti Sharma. In the T20 format, she has also excelled, claiming 10 wickets in five matches at an impressive average of 14.80, including a notable four-wicket haul. Additionally, DC added depth to their squad by signing India off-spinner Sneh Rana for ₹50 lakh. Rana, a member of India's World Cup-winning team, brings valuable experience and control, having taken 24 wickets in 29 T20Is at an average of 24.41, with best figures of 3/9.
Gujarat Giants Retain Promising Talent
Gujarat Giants effectively utilized their RTM card to retain Bharti Fulmali for ₹70 lakh, fending off interest from Mumbai Indians. Fulmali has represented India in two T20Is, scoring 23 runs, and is viewed as a promising middle-order player.
RCB Strengthens Bowling Lineup
Royal Challengers Bengaluru enhanced their bowling attack by signing Radha Yadav for ₹65 lakh. The left-arm spinner, who was part of the World Cup-winning squad, brings strong T20I credentials, having taken 103 wickets in 89 matches at an average of 19.09, including two four-wicket hauls. Her experience and wicket-taking prowess significantly bolster RCB's spin department.
S Meghana Goes Unsold
In a surprising turn, former RCB player S Meghana, who was part of their title-winning squad in 2024-25, went unsold during the auction. Meghana has accumulated 114 runs in three ODIs for India, including a half-century, and 258 runs in 17 T20Is at an average of 18.42, with one fifty. Despite her international experience, she did not attract any bids this time.