All five Women's Premier League franchises announced their retention lists on November 6, 2025, ahead of the 2026 auctions. Key players like Smriti Mandhana and Nat Sciver-Brunt were retained at high prices, while notable releases include Deepti Sharma and Alyssa Healy. This sets the stage for a major auction to rebuild squads.
The Women's Premier League (WPL) entered a new phase on November 6, 2025, as all five franchises unveiled their retention decisions for the 2026 season. These announcements, made ahead of upcoming auctions, highlight strategic choices by teams to balance core strengths with fresh talent acquisition.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured opener Smriti Mandhana for Rs 3.5 crore, underscoring her value as a top batter. Mumbai Indians similarly retained captain Nat Sciver-Brunt at the same price, emphasizing leadership and all-round prowess. Gujarat Giants held onto Australian all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner for Rs 2.5 crore, aiming to bolster their bowling attack. UP Warriorz opted for a more modest retention, keeping Shweta Sehrawat for Rs 50 lakhs.
Delhi Capitals made a historic move by retaining four players—Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Marizanne Kapp, and Annabel Sutherland—for a combined Rs 2.2 crore, marking the first time a franchise has locked in multiple stars at a fixed total in WPL history. This innovative approach allows flexibility in the auction while preserving key performers.
On the release front, several high-profile players hit the auction pool. UP Warriorz let go of Deepti Sharma, despite her World Cup heroics. Gujarat Giants released Harleen Deol, while Delhi Capitals parted ways with Australian legend Meg Lanning. Other notable releases include Sophie Ecclestone, regarded as the best bowler in women's cricket, and Alyssa Healy, who was in prime form during the World Cup. In total, nine members of India's World Cup-winning squad were released across teams.
With retentions finalized, attention now turns to the auctions, where franchises will vie to construct title-contending squads from the available talent.