
The Women’s Premier League (WPL) is gearing up for its 2026 mega auction, and several top players have been released by their franchises, shaking up the cricket landscape. Here’s a rundown of the most surprising exits that are sure to influence team strategies.
Deepti Sharma, India’s all-rounder and Player of the Tournament in the 2025 Women’s World Cup, has been released by UP Warriorz. Having played 25 games and taken 27 wickets, her release was unexpected based on her recent form. The statistics speak volumes:
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches | 25 |
| Runs Scored | 507 |
| Wickets Taken | 27 |
Another major release is Meg Lanning, former captain of Delhi Capitals. Under her guidance, the team reached finals but failed to clinch a title. Her impressive records include:
| Season | Games Played | Runs | Average | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 27 | 952 | 39.66 | 127.10 |
South African skipper Laura Wolvaardt, who was the leading scorer in the 2025 Women’s World Cup, has also been released by Gujarat Giants. Her past performance in WPL shows she is a player to watch:
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches | 13 |
| Runs | 342 |
Mumbai Indians have let go of Amelia Kerr, a crucial player in their championship-winning campaigns. Her remarkable stats make her release puzzling:
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches | 29 |
| Runs | 437 |
| Wickets | 40 |
Lastly, UP Warriorz have released Sophie Ecclestone, a match-winner with a record of 36 wickets in 25 games. Her potential for any team is undeniable:
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches | 25 |
| Wickets | 36 |
These player releases set the stage for a thrilling auction, as teams look to bolster their strengths and fill the gaps left by these remarkable talents. Keep an eye on the WPL 2026 auction!






