The Women’s Premier League (WPL) is heating up ahead of its third season, with the league announcing a major update to its retention and auction rules. Franchises can now retain up to five players ahead of the mega auction scheduled for November 2025—a move that could dramatically reshape team strategies and player valuations .
WPL Retention Rules: What’s Changed?
In a significant shift from previous seasons, the WPL Governing Council has confirmed that each of the five franchises will be allowed to retain up to five players before the auction. This is an increase from the earlier cap of three or four, depending on the year, and reflects the league’s growing confidence in its core talent pool.
Alongside this, teams will receive an INR 15 crore auction purse—but with a crucial caveat: the total amount will be reduced based on the number and salary of retained players.
How Retention Impacts the Auction Purse
The WPL has introduced a tiered deduction system to ensure competitive balance:
- First retained player: INR 3 crore deduction
- Second retained player: INR 2.5 crore deduction
- Third retained player: INR 2 crore deduction
- Fourth retained player: INR 1.5 crore deduction
- Fifth retained player: INR 1 crore deduction
This means a team retaining all five players will start the auction with just INR 5 crore (15 – 10 = 5) to spend on new talent—a tight budget that will force tough choices.
Why This Matters for WPL Franchises
For franchises like Mumbai Indians (two-time champions) or Delhi Capitals (runners-up in 2024), retaining a core group—including stars like Harmanpreet Kaur, Shafali Verma, or Amelia Kerr—could provide continuity and chemistry. But it also risks limiting flexibility to refresh the squad with emerging global talent.
“Retaining five players gives us stability, but we have to be surgical with who we keep,” said a senior official from one franchise, speaking anonymously. “One wrong call could leave us underpowered in key departments.”
Player Impact: Security vs. Opportunity
For players, retention offers financial security and team familiarity. But for those on the bubble, the expanded retention list could mean fewer auction opportunities—and lower bids—as teams conserve funds.
Conversely, uncapped Indian players and international prospects from emerging cricketing nations (like Scotland, Thailand, or UAE) may see increased demand, as franchises look to fill gaps affordably.
What’s Next Before the Mega Auction?
Franchises must submit their final retention lists by October 25, 2025. The full player pool—including new entrants and released stars—will be announced in early November, ahead of the auction later that month.
With the WPL’s broadcast rights now valued at over $100 million and global viewership rising, this auction could set new benchmarks for women’s cricket salaries and market dynamics.