NEW DELHI
India’s World Cup-winning stalwarts Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Shafali Verma are among the high-profile names retained by Women’s Premier League (WPL) franchises for the 2026 season, according to reports. Their retention underscores the franchises’ focus on continuity and proven performers as the league heads toward its second mega auction.
As per the reports, defending champions Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals have retained five players each — the maximum allowed under WPL regulations. Royal Challengers Bengaluru have kept four players, Gujarat Giants two, and UP Warriorz just one.
In a surprising twist, star Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma and Australia’s captain Alyssa Healy did not make the retention lists. They were joined on the released roster by fellow Australian Meg Lanning and New Zealand’s versatile all-rounder Amelia Kerr, making them top contenders in the upcoming auction pool.
Under WPL’s retention rules, franchises can retain a maximum of three capped Indian players, two overseas players, and two uncapped Indians. For teams opting to retain five players, at least one must be an uncapped Indian talent, ensuring opportunities for emerging domestic players.
In another development, the WPL introduced the right-to-match (RTM) card for 2026, allowing teams to re-sign one of their previously released players during the auction if they match the highest bid.
The 2026 player auction, expected in December, promises high drama as teams rebuild their squads and competition for marquee names intensifies. With several big stars back in the pool, the bidding war is likely to be one of the most closely watched events in women’s franchise cricket this year.