The Women’s Premier League (WPL) is set for its biggest shake-up yet. With the WPL mega auction confirmed for late November 2025, all five franchises are preparing for a near-complete rebuild ahead of the 2026 season. Sources close to the BCCI reveal that teams will be allowed to retain only a limited number of players—opening the door for fresh talent, strategic bidding wars, and possibly the most competitive auction in WPL history.
Why This WPL Mega Auction Is a Game-Changer
Unlike previous editions where teams retained core squads, the upcoming WPL mega auction will reset the playing field. Each franchise is expected to retain just 3–4 players, meaning over 70% of current rosters could hit the open market. This move aims to boost parity, increase team-building strategy, and give more Indian and international stars a shot at the spotlight.
“This isn’t just a refresh—it’s a full reboot,” said a senior BCCI official involved in WPL planning. “We want every team to have a fair chance, and we want fans to see new combinations, new rivalries, and more excitement.”
What to Expect from the Auction Format
- Date: Late November 2025 (likely last week)
- Location: Mumbai or Delhi (TBD)
- Retention Rules: 3–4 players per team (mix of capped/uncapped)
- Player Pool: Over 300 registered players, including rising U-19 stars and global stars like Ashleigh Gardner, Laura Wolvaardt, and Amelia Kerr
- New Entrants: No expansion teams in 2026, but player pool includes 50+ new registrants from associate nations
Franchise Strategy Shifts
Reigning champions Mumbai Indians, who’ve dominated with a stable core led by Harmanpreet Kaur and Hayley Matthews, may face tough choices. Do they retain their captain or invest in younger Indian talent like Shabnim Ismail or Amanjot Kaur?
Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals—runners-up in 2025—could pivot toward a more balanced squad after relying heavily on overseas stars. Royal Challengers Bangalore, despite strong fan support, have yet to lift a trophy and may go all-in on a new leadership core.
Table: WPL 2025 Retention Scenarios (Projected)
| Team | Likely Retentions | Auction Priority |
|---|---|---|
| Mumbai Indians | Harmanpreet Kaur, Amelia Kerr, Hayley Matthews | Indian pace bowlers, finishers |
| Delhi Capitals | Shafali Verma, Jess Jonassen, Radha Yadav | Top-order stability, death bowlers |
| RCB | Smriti Mandhana, Ellyse Perry, Richa Ghosh | All-rounders, spin options |
| UP Warriorz | Alyssa Healy, Deepti Sharma, Grace Harris | Middle-order batters, fielding specialists |
| Gujarat Giants | Beth Mooney, Ashleigh Gardner, Tanuja Kanwar | Young Indian talent, power-hitters |
Rising Stars to Watch
The auction could be a breakout moment for India’s next-gen cricketers. Names like Mannat Kashyap (left-arm spinner), Shreyanka Patil (off-spin all-rounder), and U-19 World Cup star G Kamalini are already generating buzz. Internationally, South Africa’s Tazmin Brits and England’s Freya Kemp could fetch premium bids.
“This auction is our chance to prove we belong,” said 19-year-old batter Kamalini in a recent interview. “Every young player in India is training like it’s their last chance.”
BCCI’s Bigger Vision
The mega auction aligns with the BCCI’s long-term plan to professionalize women’s cricket. With the 2026 WPL season expected to feature expanded broadcast rights, international streaming deals, and increased prize money, the league is positioning itself as a global benchmark—on par with The Hundred Women’s and WBBL.
Moreover, the move could fast-track India’s preparation for the 2029 Women’s Cricket World Cup, giving selectors a deeper pool of match-ready players.
Fan Engagement & Fantasy Impact
For fans, the WPL mega auction means fresh team loyalties, new captain choices, and a fantasy cricket goldmine. Platforms like Dream11 and My11Circle are already teasing special WPL auction contests, with live bidding simulations and expert prediction leagues.
“Last season was about star power,” said a fantasy sports analyst. “This season will be about smart picks—and that’s way more fun for fans.”
What’s Next?
Player registrations close in early November. The final retention rules and purse amounts will be announced by mid-November. With the auction just weeks away, teams are already holding secret scouting camps and data-driven evaluations.
One thing’s certain: the WPL 2026 season won’t just be a tournament—it’ll be a revolution.