Deepti Sharma emerges as second most expensive player in WPL history

2026 Women’s Premier League Mega Auction sparked fierce bidding wars in New Delhi on November 27, marking the tournament’s first large-scale player reshuffle ahead of the season that begins on January 9 in Mumbai and Baroda. Franchises entered with a combined purse of over ₹41 crore, strategically deploying Right of consideration (RTM) cards to recover stars after pre-auction retentions. Versatile Deepti Sharma stole the show, becoming the second most expensive player in WPL history as UP Warriorz matched Delhi Capitals’ ₹3.2 crore bid to bring her back.

UP Warriorz secure Deepti Sharma in dramatic RTM showdown

Deepti, entering at a modest base price of ₹50 lakh in the marquee set, sparked an unexpected frenzy when Delhi Capitals caught her initially without competition. UP Warriorz, its former franchise, activated its RTM option, prompting DC to counter with the increased figure of ₹3.2 crore, which UPW quickly matched to retain its services.

Previously acquired for ₹2.6 crore in the 2023 WPL, Deepti’s value has jumped by ₹60 lakh, reflecting her proven impact: 507 runs at a strike rate of 117.63 and 27 wickets in 25 matches, including a historic hat-trick and MVP honors in 2024. Her captaincy of UPW last season, combined with recent Player of the Tournament exploits of the ODI World Cup, cemented her as an all-rounder capable of batting at any position and bowling economically in all phases.​

This reunion strengthens the core of UP Warriorz alongside acquisitions like Meg Lanning (₹1.9 crore) And Sophie Ecclestone (₹85 lakh via RTM), positioning them strongly despite modest pre-auction retention of Shweta Sehrawat. Deepti’s contributions in all phases make her indispensable for a franchise aiming for its first title after consistent playoff appearances.​

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Deepti’s deal propels it to elite company status, ranking tied for second on the all-time WPL auction list dominated by the 2023 inaugural extravaganza.​

Mandhana’s record-breaking opening bid sets the tone, as Deepti joins in Ashley Gardner And Nat Sciver-Brunt as global powers validating massive investments through multifaceted performances. Recent highlights like Amélie Kerr (₹3 crore, MI) and Sophie Devine (₹2 crore, Gujarat Giants) signal rising stakes for WPL 2026. These purchases highlight franchises prioritizing proven T20 winners amid growing global demand for women’s cricket talent.

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This article was first published on WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.