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The Women's Premier League (WPL) is gearing up for its 2026 edition, and the build-up has intensified with franchises finalizing their player retention lists. The WPL 2026 auction is expected to be held towards the end of November 2025, and several big names are set to go under the hammer after teams announced surprise releases and strategic retentions.
The defending champions Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Delhi Capitals, Gujarat Giants, and UP Warriors have all taken different approaches while shaping their cores for the next season.
Mumbai Indians Retain Their Core, Release Amelia Kerr
Mumbai Indians, the reigning champions, have retained five key players including captain Harmanpreet Kaur, world-class all-rounder Nat Sciver-Brunt, and promising talent Amanjot Kaur. The franchise has also held on to Hayley Matthews and G Kamalini.
However, their decision to release star all-rounder Amelia Kerr has taken many by surprise, making her one of the most high-profile names available in the auction pool.
Retained Players (MI):
- Harmanpreet Kaur
- Nat Sciver-Brunt
- Hayley Matthews
- Amanjot Kaur
- G Kamalini
Remaining Purse: ₹5.7 crore
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Delhi Capitals Release Meg Lanning, Retain Strong Indian Core
In one of the most notable moves this retention window, Delhi Capitals have released former captain Meg Lanning, marking a major shift in their team structure. However, they have secured the services of key Indian stars Jemimah Rodrigues and Shafali Verma. Alongside them, Marizanne Kapp, Annabel Sutherland, and Niki Prasad remain part of the setup.
Retained Players (DC):
- Jemimah Rodrigues
- Shafali Verma
- Marizanne Kapp
- Annabel Sutherland
- Niki Prasad
Remaining Purse: ₹5.7 crore
Also Read: RCB is Now Up for Sale, Diageo Starts the Selling Process
Gujarat Giants Retain Only Two Players
Gujarat Giants have made the boldest decision among all franchises by retaining just two players – Ashleigh Gardner and Beth Mooney. This indicates a full revamp strategy, creating space for a major shopping spree at the auction.
Retained Players (GG):
- Ashleigh Gardner
- Beth Mooney
Remaining purse: ₹9 crore
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Hold On to Their Young Core
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have focused on continuity, showing faith in their captain Smriti Mandhana and experienced all-rounder Ellyse Perry. They have also retained rising star Shreyanka Patil along with wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh.
The team has parted ways with multiple players including Sneh Rana, Renuka Singh, and Heather Graham, clearing space to rebuild through the auction.
Retained Players (RCB):
- Smriti Mandhana
- Ellyse Perry
- Richa Ghosh
- Shreyanka Patil
Remaining Purse: ₹6.15 crore
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UP Warriors Stick With Youth, Retain Just One Player
UP Warriors have shown complete trust in youngster Shweta Sehrawat, choosing to retain only the 21-year-old and releasing the rest of their squad. This move opens up the most room for reshaping their entire roster at the auction.
Retained Player (UPW):
- Shweta Sehrawat
Remaining purse: 14.5 crore
Conclusion
The retention announcements ahead of the WPL 2026 auction have already set the stage for a dramatic bidding war. Big names like Amelia Kerr and Meg Lanning entering the auction pool promise high-intensity competition among franchises. With significant purse values available and several teams opting for rebuilding, the upcoming WPL 2026 auction could turn out to be one of the most exciting events in the league’s history.
Also Read: Top 3 RCB Women’s Players Likely to Be Retained for WPL 2026
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