The stage is set for the Women’s Premier League 2026 auction in New Delhi today, November 27. A total of 277 players will go under the hammer for just 73 spots across the five teams, making this one of the most competitive WPL auctions yet.
What is the RTM rule?
This year brings a new twist – the Right to Match (RTM) rule. It allows teams to reclaim a former player by matching the highest bid placed by another franchise. UP Warriorz have the most RTM cards with four, followed by Gujarat Giants with three and Royal Challengers Bengaluru with one. Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals won’t have any RTM options since they’ve already retained the maximum five players.
Players on RTM watch
UP Warriorz may look to bring back stars like Alyssa Healy, Deepti Sharma, Kiran Navgire and Sophie Ecclestone.
Gujarat Giants could attempt to retain Laura Wolvaardt, Phoebe Litchfield and Harleen Deol, while RCB’s lone RTM could go towards pacer Renuka Singh Thakur.
The financial dynamics are equally interesting. UP Warriorz enter with the biggest purse of Rs 14.5 crore, ready to shake things up. Delhi Capitals have the smallest fund at just Rs 5.70 crore, meaning every pick must count.
With only 15–18 players allowed per squad, teams must strike the perfect balance – young talent versus reliable match-winners.
Purse size ahead of mega auction
Auction dynamics are set to play a decisive role in this first mega auction. UP Warriorz enter with the biggest purse at Rs 14.5 crore. Delhi Capitals, on the other hand, will operate with the smallest budget at Rs 5.70 crore.
With squad sizes limited to 15-18 players, franchises are expected to strike the right balance between rising domestic talent and established international performers as the WPL prepares for its next phase of growth.