The WPL 2026 Auction will be announced soon by the BCCI, including the date, venue, and salary cap. Expected in November 2025, the auction gives franchises a chance to strengthen squads with domestic and international players.
The 2026 Women’s Premier League is likely to start in early January, around the 6th or 8th, featuring 22 exciting matches over 26–27 days.
This article will guide you through auction updates, the expected schedule and venues, a quick recap of 2025, and other key details.
WPL 2026 Auction Details
The WPL 2026 auction is expected in November 2025, though the BCCI hasn’t confirmed the exact date yet. This gives teams enough time to plan before the tournament kicks off in January.
With three seasons behind them, this auction could be a mega-auction special event where teams can make significant squad changes, giving fans plenty to look forward to.
WPL 2026 Season Expected Schedule & Venues
The 2026 WPL is expected to start on January 6 or 8, featuring 22 matches. India will host the WPL 2026 tournament, which will follow a round-robin format and include playoffs.
Five teams will be participating in the league: Mumbai Indians Women, Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women, Delhi Capitals Women, UP Warriorz, and Gujarat Giants.
The BCCI has yet to finalize the venues for WPL 2026, but have a look at some venues from past seasons:
| Season | Venues |
|---|---|
| 2023 | Mumbai |
| 2024 | Bengaluru, Delhi |
| 2025 | Baroda, Bengaluru, Lucknow, Mumbai |
Over the years, WPL has gradually expanded across cities, giving more fans a chance to watch live matches, and WPL 2026 is expected to continue this trend.
The expansion of women’s cricket and leagues like WPL reflects decades of sports development under various Sports Ministers in India, who have implemented policies to promote talent at all levels.
Recap of WPL 2025 Player Auction
The TATA WPL 2025 Auction saw some record-breaking player bids and strategic team picks. Here are the top 8 buys from the auction:
| Team | Player | Base Price | Winning Bid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gujarat Giants | Simran Shaikh | ₹10 Lac | ₹1.9 Cr |
| Gujarat Giants | Deandra Dottin | ₹50 Lac | ₹1.7 Cr |
| Mumbai Indians | G. Kamalini | ₹10 Lac | ₹1.6 Cr |
| RCB | Prema Rawat | ₹10 Lac | ₹1.2 Cr |
| Delhi Capitals | N. Charani | ₹10 Lac | ₹55 Lac |
| Mumbai Indians | Nadine De Klerk | ₹30 Lac | ₹30 Lac |
| Gujarat Giants | Danielle Gibson | ₹30 Lac | ₹30 Lac |
| UP Warriorz | Alana King | ₹30 Lac | ₹30 Lac |
The 2025 WPL auction saw teams make some bold moves. Gujarat Giants focused on players who could make an immediate impact, while Mumbai Indians and RCB opted for versatile players to maintain a balanced squad.
At the same time, some players were acquired at their base price, providing teams with solid options without overspending.
The results from this auction provide a clear picture of team strategies and also set the tone for the 2026 auction, where squads may look to further strengthen their teams based on their 2025 performances.
Who is the Most Expensive Player in WPL History?
The most expensive player in WPL history is Smriti Mandhana, who was bought by Royal Challengers Bengaluru for ₹3.4 crore in the 2023 auction.
Her price reflected her status as one of the best opening batters in the world and a proven leader in women’s cricket. The investment paid off as Mandhana led RCB to their first WPL title in 2024.
Teams now look at her price as a guide when investing in players who can perform and lead.
Her success has also played a key role in making cricket one of the most popular sports for women in India.
WPL 2026 Franchises Overview
The WPL features five competitive franchises, each building unique squads with top domestic and international players for an exciting season ahead.
Mumbai Indians Women
Mumbai Indians Women were established in 2023 and joined the WPL in its inaugural season the same year. They have already won two WPL titles, in 2023 and 2025, making them the most successful franchise so far.
The team is known for a strong mix of experienced internationals and talented domestic players, which helps them stay competitive.
Their current captain is Harmanpreet Kaur. Key players include G. Kamalini and Nadine De Klerk, both of whom are crucial for their all-round abilities.
The Mumbai Indians Women played several WPL 2025 matches at Brabourne Stadium, hosted by the Mumbai Cricket Association, giving fans a chance to see top talent.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women started in 2023 and played their first WPL season the same year.
They won their first WPL title in 2024 under the leadership of Smriti Mandhana, showcasing their ability to build a championship-winning squad around star players.
Their current captain is Smriti Mandhana. Key players include Prema Rawat, who strengthens the batting lineup.
Delhi Capitals Women
Delhi Capitals Women were established in 2023 and joined the WPL from the first season.
While they haven’t won a title yet, they have reached multiple finals and built a reputation for nurturing young talent and maintaining a strong core of experienced players.
Their current captain is Meg Lanning. Key players include N. Charani, who provides depth in batting.
UP Warriorz
UP Warriorz joined the WPL in 2023, the same year the league was established. They are emerging as a competitive side, focusing heavily on domestic talent while strategically adding international players to strengthen their lineup.
Their current captain is Deepti Sharma. Key players include Alana King, whose all-round skills provide balance.
Gujarat Giants
Gujarat Giants were founded in 2023 and have been part of the WPL since the beginning.
They are known for making bold auction moves, especially for high-profile international players, aiming to create star-studded lineups capable of big performances.
Their current captain is Ashleigh Gardne. Key players include Simran Shaikh, Deandra Dottin, and Danielle Gibson, all of whom are capable of changing the course of a match.
Did you know? The growth of WPL franchises is strongly supported by sports infrastructure in India, providing stadiums, training facilities, and professional conditions.
What Fans Can Expect from WPL 2026 Auction?
The WPL 2026 Auction will bring major squad changes, as teams work to fix past weaknesses and prepare stronger lineups.
Young domestic players who impressed in recent tournaments are expected to attract big bids, giving franchises a chance to invest in future stars.
International players returning to the auction pool will add balance and global experience, helping teams build competitive combinations.
The current BCCI Chairman is expected to play a key role by ensuring fair auction rules, smooth planning, and long-term league growth.
Conclusion: The WPL 2026 Auction May Happen In November 2025
The WPL 2026 Auction marks a crucial step for all five franchises as they get ready for an early start to the season. Teams will need to build strong squads quickly and begin preparations without delay.
This auction is expected to bring intense bidding wars, surprise signings, and smart strategies that could redefine team strengths. Every decision made here will shape the tone of the tournament.
With the WPL’s growing global popularity, the 2026 auction is expected to capture the attention of cricket fans worldwide.
FAQs
The official salary cap for WPL 2026 has not been announced, with the BCCI expected to release details closer to the auction.
Uncapped players are expected to feature strongly, as franchises often invest in domestic talent for depth and future growth.
Franchises are allowed to sign five overseas players in total, though only four can appear together in a match.
Player retention rules will be clarified by BCCI; past editions permitted limited retentions with associated salary deductions applied.
Live broadcast and digital streaming are typically provided by major sports networks, with official platforms announced near the auction date.
