WPL 2026 Auction: Top 10 most expensive player buys in the mega auction

Deepti's signing set the tone for a thrilling auction where several marquee players and young stars triggered intense competition to complete the list of the top 10 most expensive picks of WPL 2026.

The WPL 2026 Mega Auction delivered high drama, fierce bidding wars, and historic signings as franchises battled to secure the best talent ahead of the new season. Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma emerged as the most expensive buy of the auction, commanding an incredible ₹3.2 crore from the Up Warriorz, the highest bid of the day.  Her signing set the tone for a thrilling auction where several marquee players and young stars triggered intense competition to complete the list of the top 10 most expensive picks of WPL 2026. 

	WPL 2026 Auction most expensive buys
Team	Player		Base Price		Winning Bid
UP Warriorz	Deepti Sharma		₹50 Lac		₹3.2 Cr
Mumbai Indians	Amelia Kerr		₹50 Lac		₹3 Cr
Gujarat Giants	Sophie Devine		₹50 Lac		₹2 Cr
UP Warriorz	Meg Lanning		₹50 Lac		₹1.9 Cr
Delhi Capitals	Chinelle Henry		₹30 Lac		₹1.3 Cr
Delhi Capitals	N. Charani		₹30 Lac		₹1.3 Cr
UP Warriorz	Phoebe Litchfield		₹50 Lac		₹1.2 Cr
Delhi Capitals	Laura Wolvaardt		₹30 Lac		₹1.1 Cr

 

  Deepti Sharma – ₹3.2 Crore  

Deepti Sharma emerged as the most expensive player of the WPL 2026 Auction, securing a massive ₹3.2 crore deal for UP Warriors. The franchise used the right to match card and brought her back into the team. Her consistent all-round performances, composed temperament, and ability to influence every phase of the game made her the most sought-after Indian star this year. Teams were eager to secure a reliable match-winner, and Deepti’s proven track record with both bat and ball justified the intense bidding war that unfolded for her services.

 

Amelia Kerr – ₹3 Crore

 

New Zealand’s Amelia Kerr was the top overseas buy, going for an impressive ₹3 crore for Mumbai Indians. Her versatility as a leg-spinning all-rounder makes her an invaluable asset in T20 cricket. Kerr’s ability to bowl economical spells, break partnerships, and contribute quick runs in the middle order elevated her demand. Franchises recognised her match-winning potential and invested heavily in her as a multi-dimensional overseas performer.

 

Sophie Devine – ₹2 Crore

 

Sophie Devine fetched a strong ₹2 crore deal from Gujarat Giants, reaffirming her status as one of the most impactful power hitters in women’s cricket. Known for her aggressive batting, leadership experience, and handy medium-pace bowling, Devine adds significant balance to any squad. Her ability to dominate the powerplay and step up in pressure situations convinced teams that she remains a top-tier T20 match-winner, resulting in a competitive bidding battle.

 

Meg Lanning – ₹1.9 Crore

 

Legendary Australian captain Meg Lanning drew a ₹1.9 crore bid from UP Warriorz, highlighting her continued influence despite retiring from international cricket. Her exceptional leadership, tactical understanding, and consistent batting anchored her value. Teams sought her experience to guide younger cores, boost stability, and enhance strategic decision-making in crunch moments. Lanning’s proven title-winning pedigree made her one of the most valuable names in the auction.

 

Chinelle Henry – ₹1.3 Crore

 

West Indies all-rounder Chinelle Henry secured a significant ₹1.3 crore contract from Delhi Capitals. Her pace bowling, athletic fielding, and lower-order hitting offer excellent T20 flexibility. Henry’s recent performances and improved consistency caught the attention of multiple franchises. Her ability to provide breakthroughs and contribute quick runs added to her appeal, making her one of the top-value overseas buys this year.  Expensive player retentions ahead of WPL 2026  Smriti Mandhana, Nat Sciver-Brunt and Ashleigh Gardner are the three players that have been retained at a hefty sum of INR 3.5 Crore by their respective franchises. While this is a great sum, it can't be considered as the most expensive buy of the auction considering it is a retention fee.